As Indian on Monday started an inoculation drive for senior citizens, Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge said the vaccine should be first given to the youngsters in the country.
When asked if he would get the vaccine shots, the opposition leader said it should be given to young people as they have many more years to live. "I am above 70 years of age. You should give it (Covid-19 vaccine) to youngsters who have longevity in life as opposed to me. I merely have 10 to 15 more years to live," he said.
On Monday, several politicians, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, received the first dose of Covid-19 vaccine.
His remarks came as the second phase of the nationwide Covid-19 vaccination drive for age-appropriate population groups began on Monday. Everyone above 60 years of age and those over 45 years with comorbidities will be able to get the Covid-19 vaccine for free at government facilities and for Rs 250 at many private hospitals.
Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took the Covaxin Covid vaccine jab at AIIMS Delhi and appealed to those who are eligible for the shots to come forward and get the vaccine.
Appeal opposition leaders to get vaccinated: Vardhan
Meanwhile, Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan called on the opposition leaders, elected representatives and common people to come forward and get vaccinated as soon as possible.
The Union Health minister appealed to the opposition leaders to get vaccinations against the coronavirus. "I appeal to all citizens who are above 60 years of age, those above 45 years with comorbidities, all MPs-MLAs and even Opposition MLAs to get vaccinated. This would send a message to people that they should get vaccinated at the earliest," he said.
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The nationwide vaccination drive was rolled out on January 16, 2021, and vaccination for the frontline workers started on February 2.
Meanwhile, Haryana Health Minister Anil Vij, who had earlier contracted the virus said he will not get vaccinated as he does not need it.
"The vaccination programme is being opened for the people today. There should be hesitation in people regarding getting vaccinated. However, I will not be able to receive a dose as after contracting Covid-19, my antibody count has reached 300, which is a lot. The trials vaccine may also have a role to play in this. So, I don't need the vaccine right now," Vij tweeted in Hindi.