Bengaluru:  Health Minister Dr K Sudhakar Wednesday said the state government will not tolerate denial of ration and pension to those refusing to take Covid vaccine.

"Our government will not tolerate denial of ration and pension to those who are refusing to take Covid vaccine jabs," he told reporters in Kolar.

He was reacting to a comment reportedly made by Chamarajanagar Deputy Commissioner MR Ravi, linking Covid-19 vaccination with ration benefits and pension payments.

He reportedly said that pension and ration will be denied to those who are refusing to take vaccines.

Sudhakar said he is not aware of any such statement made by the deputy commissioner. "It is not the government's decision, he could have taken a stand on the matter," he said.

Instead of making such comments, it is better to persuade and spread awareness among those who are reluctant to take jabs, Sudhakar said.

Already, some public representatives and voluntary organisations are offering incentives, to encourage people in Yadgir, Bidar, Kalaburagi and Chamarajanagar districts, who are reluctant to take the jabs, he said.

"The purpose is to ensure the safety of people," he added.

RDPR Minister KS Eshwarappa had lambasted the deputy commissioner, questioning him for linking vaccination to pension payment and ration supply.

"Who is this deputy commissioner to decide against providing pension and ration. It is the decision taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to give ration. Such comments will not be tolerated," he said.

KPCC President DK Shivakumar demanded Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai to suspend the deputy commissioner and file a case against him.