New Delhi: As the model code of conduct has come into effect in the five poll-bound states, Covid immunisation certificates will not feature Prime Minister Narendra Modi's photo, PTI reported official sources as stated on Sunday.
According to a source, the Union Health Ministry has implemented essential filters on the Co-WIN platform to remove Modi's photo off the immunisation certificate.
The filters were implemented on Saturday night, shortly after the voting timetable was published, the sources told PTI.
The Election Commission stated on Saturday that assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Manipur, and Goa would be contested in seven stages between February 10 and March 7, with results published on March 10.
The Model Code of Conduct for governments, candidates, and political parties became effective with the release of the timetable.
"The Health Ministry has applied necessary filters on the CoWIN platform to exclude the picture of the prime minister from the COVID-19 certificates being given to people in these five poll-bound states because of the model code of conduct coming into force," an official source was quoted by PTI.
Following objections from various political parties, the Health Ministry had taken a similar move during the votes in Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Puducherry in March 2021, as directed by the Election Commission.
Notably, the Election Commission, while announcing the month-long election calendar, announced a prohibition on physical rallies and roadshows until January 15 owing to Covid concerns.
The prohibition on rallies, roadshows, nukkad sabhas, padayatras, and vehicle rallies would be reviewed on January 15, according to Chief Election Commissioner Sushil Chandra.