Speak up Delhi: Toxic VIP culture on streets becomes a cause of concern for NCR residents

Written By Sparsh Sanwal | Updated: Oct 22, 2018, 06:35 AM IST

Video grab of Ashish Pandey, son of former BSP MLA Rakesh Pandey, holding a gun as he argues with a man and a woman

Recent cases of violence and abuse of authority by the influential people show an ugly trend

In recent times, the cases of politicians or their relatives defying laws have witnessed a significant rise. In one such case, son of an ex-BSP Member of Parliament brandished a gun at two persons after a verbal spat turned ugly at a posh five-star hotel in southern Delhi. In another incident, a video surfaced where a BJP councilor was seen thrashing a police official in his hotel.

The incidents have raised the question on the VIP culture which politicians claim had ended with the ban on beacon lights, but unfortunately, politicians and influential people still enjoy flaunting their money and power.

The accused was identified as Aashish Pandey, the son of ex BSP MLA Rakesh Pandey. In a viral video of the incident, Pandey was seen holding a gun as he argues with a man and a woman. The entire incident took place because of a small quarrel which led him to point his gun at the duo.

The accused later surrendered and was sent to judicial custody, but the question that remained unanswered was, how far the tradition of VIP people and their ways to flaunt their money and power would go?

"From flashing beacon lights to using sirens or even using guns, people who wish to flaunt their money and power have been treating the society as their playground. However, the time is right to make sure that these kinds of rich brats do not run free in the society, they must be punished and their licenses of arms must be taken away," said Shagun Rai, a resident of Noida.

There had been instances where the VIPs like MLA, MP and even their relatives had put a beacon and siren on their vehicles and went around the city showcasing their supremacy; moreover, there are politicians who put a nameplate on the front and back of their vehicle to avoid police checks. This all has been a part of the society for a very long, which must be stopped now.

Last year the central government had banned the use of beacon for the MP, MLAs, and politicians to make sure the VIP culture running rampant in the society is curbed, however on many instances the politicians and their relatives still use these without fearing rules and regulations.

"Once while I was travelling in Lajpat Market, an over speeding vehicle went passing my mother, even an inch closer that would have proved fatal. When policemen stopped him, the accused pointed towards the nameplate on the car which said MLA. The next I sew was the accused getting away with respect," said Harshit Pandey, a resident of Noida.

HOLIER-THAN-THOU

There had been instances where the VIPs like MLA, MP and even their relatives had put a beacon and siren on their vehicles and went around the city showcasing their supremacy. Moreover, there are politicians who put a nameplate on their vehicle to avoid police checks

VOICES

Every day we come across so many incidents where a spoiled brat creates nuisance and takes charge of the law and order. My question is, does the police take necessary action against such anti-social elements who think spreading vandalism is pride?” 
Nishant Thakur, student of Amity University

The VIP and the class culture is very much prevalent in our Indian society. People meet their selfish ends by using their powers and position for a wrong purpose, which is not only unethical but also a hideous crime.” 
Harshit Sengar, Resident of Greater Noida

I am glad that the entire incident isn’t supported by the party his father belonged to. The statement of the authority was really clear and demanding for the arrest of brat which very justified. VIP culture is something which all don’t like but very much want to be part it. This notion being VIP should be shifted to “EIP” (Every person is important)”. 
Aakash Dangwal, Resident of Delhi

The recent incident at a posh hotel in South Delhi where a rich brat, brandishing his gun and abusing a couple and left me shook. It also forced me to think about this VIP culture which is very much prevalent in our society. Can it get any worse? I don’t know but there is an urgent need to bring a halt to this”. 
Samiya Eiman,  Resident of Noida

In my view, the entire episode has empowered all those who really believe in showing off their money and status through gun culture. Mostly it has been misused by the authority. Such things would increase the disparity between Vip and common man as a social element.” 
Aditya Mihir, Resident of Noida

India’s Obnoxious  VIP culture is not just about boorish politicians wanting special treatment, but also about how we are brought up and are prone to indiscipline and indulgence. They come from the attitudes we inculcate in our children and young adults at home and school. We overindulge our children and do nothing to teach them manners, and basic discipline.” 
Banisha Tariang, Resident of Delhi