The Impressive TimesNEW DELHI: Vice-President of India C. P. Radhakrishnan on Wednesday released the book “VIP Culture in India: Power, Privilege and the Distance from Democracy” at the Uprashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. The book, authored by former Rajya Sabha Member from Arunachal Pradesh Nabam Rebia and co-author Shri Sandeep Kumar, examines the influence of privilege and power in public life and its impact on democratic values.
Speaking on the occasion, the Vice-President said the subject explored in the book touches the very core of democratic governance and public life in India. He emphasized that the Indian Constitution envisions a society founded on the principles of justice, equality, liberty and fraternity, and that democracy thrives when public office is regarded as a responsibility rather than a privilege.
Radhakrishnan noted that the relationship between citizens and those entrusted with public authority is central to the success of democracy. He said public representatives and officials must remain accountable, accessible and responsive to the people they serve.
Quoting the renowned Tamil saint-poet Thiruvalluvar, the Vice-President observed that true leadership is defined by compassion, humility and accountability. Leaders who remain approachable and respectful toward citizens earn lasting trust and admiration, he said.
The Vice-President further stated that the themes highlighted in the book align closely with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of governance based on service rather than privilege. Referring to the Prime Minister’s decision to abolish red beacon lights for dignitaries, he said the move reflected a commitment to reducing the perception of special privileges in public life.
He also cited a recent instance where Prime Minister Modi reportedly delayed his departure to avoid causing inconvenience to NEET aspirants due to traffic restrictions. According to the Vice-President, such actions demonstrate citizen-centric governance and reinforce the principle that public authority exists to serve the people.
Recalling the Prime Minister’s statement, “Every Indian is special. Every Indian is a VIP,” Radhakrishnan emphasized that service to citizens should remain the guiding principle of leadership. “Seva is the ultimate Dharma,” he added.
The Vice-President also appreciated the book’s references to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri and other leaders known for their simplicity and commitment to public service. He noted that the authors had enriched their work through references to India’s civilizational heritage, including the Upanishads, Ramcharitmanas, the teachings of Lord Buddha and the Panchatantra.
Concluding his address, Shri Radhakrishnan called for a renewed commitment to equality, dignity and humility in public life, stating that the true measure of leadership lies in the trust it earns and the service it provides to citizens.
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