THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Election Commission on Monday sought an explanation from Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan regarding his announcement that the COVID vaccine will be distributed free of cost in the state. The commission's action was based on a complaint which alleged that the CM has violated the model code of conduct by making such an announcement. The commission said that it would take further action after receiving the reply from the chief minister.

The CM made the announcement regarding the distribution of free COVID vaccine during a press conference that was held a day ahead of the final phase of local body polls in Kerala. Following this, both the UDF and the BJP lodged a complaint with the Election Commission alleging that this was a violation of the code of conduct. Meanwhile, the CM stated that there is nothing wrong with the declaration.