NEW DELHI, 24 Jun: The book “VIP Culture in India – Power, Privilege and the Distance from Democracy,” authored by former Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) Nabam Rebia and co-authored by UPSC coach Sandeep Kumar, was formally launched by the Vice President of India, C. P. Radhakrishnan, at the VP’s enclave here on Wednesday.
The book examines the evolution and persistence of VIP culture in India, exploring how systems of privilege, entitlement, and unequal access to public services impact democratic values and governance. It presents a critical analysis of the relationship between power and public accountability while advocating a more citizen-centric and egalitarian democratic framework.
Speaking on the occasion, C. P. Radhakrishnan appreciated Nabam Rebia for writing an important, timely, and thought-provoking book on a subject of great national relevance.
He praised Rebia’s deep understanding of public life, governance, democracy, and institutional values, and observed that the book reflects his long experience as a parliamentarian, former Speaker, minister, and public leader.
The Vice President stated that the book has been written in a meaningful manner and would be of great help to officers, administrators, policymakers, public representatives, and students.
He further observed that “VIP Culture in India” has the potential to become a milestone in the field of public policy, as it raises important questions about privilege, accountability, and citizen-centric governance.
Radhakrishnan also acknowledged the contribution of co-author Sandeep Kumar, noting that his support in writing the book has added academic value to the work.
He mentioned that Kumar, being a UPSC coach and motivational speaker, has contributed to a book that would be useful for UPSC aspirants, State Public Service Commission aspirants, officers, and readers interested in governance and democracy.
Eminent personalities and distinguished guests from across the country, including former Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Nabam Tuki, Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) Tapir Gao, Rajya Sabha MP S. Phangnon Konyak, and several former MPs, senior public figures, academicians, and officers, were present during the book launch ceremony.
