‘Every Indian Is a VIP’:VP Launches Book on VIP Culture
C. P. Radhakrishnan says democracy thrives when public office is viewed as a responsibility, not a privilege
- Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan released the book VIP Culture in India in New Delhi.
- He highlighted citizen-centric governance and equality as core democratic values.
- The Vice-President cited PM Modi’s decision to delay departure for NEET aspirants as an example of public service.
- He stressed that leadership should be defined by accessibility, humility and accountability.
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 24th June: Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Wednesday released the book “VIP Culture in India: Power, Privilege and the Distance from Democracy” at the Vice-President’s House in New Delhi and said that democracy flourishes when public office is treated as a responsibility rather than a privilege.
The book, authored by former Rajya Sabha member Nabam Rebia and co-authored by Sandeep Kumar, examines the relationship between power, privilege and democratic values in India.
Addressing the gathering, the Vice-President said the themes explored in the book touch the very core of democratic governance and public life. He noted that the Constitution envisions a society based on justice, liberty, equality and fraternity, and stressed that the relationship between citizens and public authorities is central to a healthy democracy.
Quoting Tamil saint-poet Thiruvalluvar, Radhakrishnan said true leadership is marked by accessibility, compassion and accountability. Leaders who remain approachable and respectful towards people earn enduring trust and admiration, he added.
The Vice-President said the book’s themes resonate with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of public office as a means of service rather than privilege. Referring to the abolition of red beacon lights for dignitaries and the Prime Minister’s recent decision to delay his departure to avoid inconvenience to NEET aspirants due to traffic restrictions, he said such actions exemplify citizen-first governance.
Recalling the Prime Minister’s words, he said, “Every Indian is special. Every Indian is a VIP,” adding that service to people remains the highest duty in public life.
Radhakrishnan also praised the book’s references to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri and its incorporation of India’s civilisational wisdom drawn from the Upanishads, Ramcharitmanas, the teachings of Lord Buddha and the Panchatantra.
Calling for renewed commitment to democratic values, he stressed the importance of equality before the law, dignity of every citizen and public service rooted in humility and responsibility. He said the true measure of leadership lies in the trust it earns and the service it delivers.
Among those present at the event were former Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Nabam Tuki, former Rajya Sabha member W. R. Kharlukhi, author Nabam Rebia and co-author Sandeep Kumar.
