The recent display of unprofessional behaviour by the Health Minister, where he entertained a close aide's complaint in a bullying manner, is a stark reminder of the deep-rooted VIP culture in our society. This culture is not limited to the corridors of power but seeps into various aspects of our lives, including law enforcement, healthcare, education, government offices and even holy places. The brutal assault and vandalism in a Calangute restaurant, where two men boasted about their VIP status and fearlessness of the law, is a chilling example of this menace. My personal experience with the slow execution of a demolition notice for an illegal construction in Goa, despite following due process for two years, further highlights the preferential treatment given to those with VIP connections. The root cause of this problem often lies in corruption, where both parties benefit from mutual monetary arrangements. However, the negative consequences are far-reaching, like rise in corruption, increased crime rate, history-sheeters getting emboldened, and VIPs entering politics. It's time for us to recognize the damage this culture inflicts on our society and governance.
