VIP culture: Vadra takes a swipe at Civil Aviation Minister Ashok Gajapathi Raju

Robert Vadra on Tuesday took a swipe at Civil Aviation Minister Ashok Gajapathi Raju over his remarks that MPs and other VIPs will continue to enjoy facilities including free access to the airport terminal building.

"Watched on electronic media discussions again about my name on a list for special privileges at Airports in India. I am glad that this formality has been removed, as this was created without my consent, by the security agencies, only to be followed when I would be travelling with SPG protectees. My existing security (personnel) are not allowed inside airports," Vadra said on Facebook.

Vadra said since he was not SPG protectee, his children and he have always travelled like ordinary passengers, following all rules and norms of security checks, from removing of coats, belts, clearing bags, etc like they would follow at any airport, world over.

"But the same Minister and so called (important people in the ruling government) clearly admit to breaking all security norms and talk of complete entitlement, of all privileges. Hypocrisy of the highest limits," he said. The issue of exemption of Vadra from frisking and checking at airport has been raised many times.

Vadra's reaction came a day after Government told Lok Sabha that MPs and other VIPs will continue to enjoy facilities like being served tea, coffee and water free of charge at airports besides free access to the terminal building as there was no move to scrap these privileges.

They will also have reserved lounge facilities at international and domestic terminals, Raju said in a written reply. Enumerating the facilities extended to the MPs, Raju said the personal staff of the MPs get airport entry pass--one in New Delhi and another for an airport nearest to their constituencies.

Besides, an airport official is designated as Protocol Officer to ensure that these these facilities and courtesies are extended to MPs, Raju said, adding the protocol is to be followed by all concerned, including private airports and airlines.