Vice President of India Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan released the book "VIP Culture in India: Power, Privilege and the Distance from Democracy" authored by former Rajya Sabha Member from Arunachal Pradesh Shri Nabam Rebia and co-authored by Shri Sandeep Kumar at Uprashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi on June 24, 2026. The Vice President stated that the book touches the core of democratic governance and public life in India, emphasizing that the Constitution envisions a society based on justice, equality, liberty and fraternity.
He highlighted that democracy flourishes when public office is viewed as a responsibility rather than a privilege, quoting Tamil saint-poet Thiruvalluvar that true leadership requires accessibility, compassion and accountability. The Vice President connected the book's themes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of public office as service, specifically referencing the abolition of red beacon lights for dignitaries and the Prime Minister's recent decision to delay his departure to avoid inconveniencing NEET aspirants with traffic restrictions.
The Vice President recalled the Prime Minister's statement that "Every Indian is special. Every Indian is a VIP" and emphasized that "Seva is the ultimate Dharma." The book also references the simplicity and public service ethos of former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri and other personalities, enriched with analysis drawing from India's civilizational traditions including the Upanishads, Ramcharitmanas, Buddha's teachings, and Panchatantra.
The event was attended by former Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh Shri Nabam Tuki, former Rajya Sabha Member from Meghalaya Shri W. R. Kharlukhi, along with the authors. The Vice President called for renewed commitment to values of equality before law, dignity of every citizen, and public service guided by humility and responsibility.
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