Ending the VIP culture

This refers to the article “Ending ‘VIP culture’ in public governance” (Dec. 17). In the good old days, civil servants were often seen signing below the words, “I beg to remain, Sir, Your most obedient servant,” even in ordinary correspondence to the common man. Now, the practice has been given the go-by, as it was considered a colonial vestige. Though we attained independence more than six decades ago, the bureaucracy still has a feudal mindset. It follows a “Yes Minister” style and is hesitant to say “No, Mr. Minister.” This is the reason for all our woes in public governance.

N. Srinivasan,

Tirunelveli