India

Robert Vadra slams Centre over airport privileges to MPs, other VIPs

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New Delhi: Claiming that special privileges he enjoyed at airports were not given to him with his consent, Robert Vadra has hit out at the Centre over facilities like free access to airport terminal building enjoyed by MPs and other VIPs.

“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 an 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.

The issue of exemption of Vadra from frisking and checking at airport has been raised many times.

Without naming Civil Aviation Minister Ashok Gajapathi Raju, he took a swipe at him. Vadra said, “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.

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.

Enumerating the facilities extended to the MPs, Minister 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.

Meanwhile, a news report quoting civil aviation ministry officials claimed that Vadra’s names remains on the list of those exempted from security checks. He is entitled to the privilege when he travels with SPG protectees like wife Priyanka, mother-in-law Sonia and brother-in-law Rahul.

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