Guru Chahal

Vijay Raman, known for his courage and bravery throughout his distinguished career as a police officer, lost the fight against cancer in Pune this morning. When the end came, his wife Veena and their son, Vikram, were by his side.

Vijay Raman – 18 January 1951 – 22 September 2023

Vijay Raman was one of that rare breed of police officers who serve their country with unwavering dedication and utmost integrity. He joined the elite Indian Police Service (IPS) in 1975, and in a career span of 35 years, distinguished himself as an outstanding and upright officer, winning accolades and appreciation.

In 1980, as SP, Bhind, he was successful in liquidating the dreaded dacoit Pan Singh Tomar and his nine-member gang in a 14-hour dusk to dawn encounter. The encounter proved instrumental later in the surrender of Phoolan Devi and Malkhan Singh.

In 1984, as SP, Special Branch, Bhopal, he played an active role in rescuing and resettling the traumatised citizens of Bhopal when the city was hit by the worst ever industrial disaster known as the Bhopal Gas Tragedy.

From 1985 to 1995, he handled various aspects of VVIP Security during his tenure in the office of four Prime Ministers, also covering important international meets such as CHOGM and World Economic Forum.

In 1997, he was given an out-of-turn promotion as IG by Govt of India to handle the responsibility of setting up a Special Security Group for the CM of J&K after the 1996 elections. Additionally, as IG Security, his work included the responsibility of protecting a large number of threatened persons and infrastructure. During his 2-year tenure at the peak of militancy in the valley, there were no notable attacks on protected persons or installations.

In 2000, he was recalled as IG, BSF, Jammu, to start the grossly delayed multi-crore project of fencing and floodlighting the dangerous International Border with Pakistan. The project was entrusted to him on account of his reputation of being a man of courage and integrity. Innovative methods were brought into play including Stealth Operations, bullet-proofing of earth-moving equipments and air-conditioning of the operator’s cabin. When the first 45 kms were completed, the per-kilometre cost was lower than the estimated project costs with minimum loss of manpower and damage to property and livestock.

In 2003 as IG – BSF, Srinagar, under his leadership successful Anti-Militancy operations were conducted in J&K. Showing exemplary courage, he ensured hoisting of the Indian Flag on 15th August 2003 at Lal Chowk, Srinagar. He then spearheaded the challenging operation to liquidate the dreaded terrorist Gazi Baba, the mastermind behind the Parliament attacks.

Vijay Raman was the recipient of the President’s Police Medal for Bravery (1981); President’s Medal for Meritorious Services (1991) and President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service (2001).

Taking a break from his demanding work-life during his tenure in SPG , Vijay undertook the very adventurous feat of travelling around the world in an Indian car and broke the then existing Guinness World Record held by the British Army, of the fastest circumnavigation of six continents around the World in 39 Days 7 hrs & 55 Minutes in November- December 1992, overcoming many challenges on the way.

The morale of the police force working under Vijay was always high as he led from the front. As an officer, he always believed in making the personnel multi-skilled and used innovative measures to improve the men and their living conditions.

Post-retirement in 2011, Vijay served as a Member of the SIT investigating the sensational Vyapam Professional Entrance Exam Scam in MP. He also offered honorary services to Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute in Pune.

Never one to attract attention, Vijay let his work speak for him. Despite his sterling service and achievements, he remained grounded all his life. Simplicity, approachability and humility marked his living. His untimely passing leaves us all poorer.