Renowned IPS Officer’s Illustrious Career and Legacy
Vijay Raman, a distinguished retired Indian Police Service (IPS) officer known for leading the police encounter that resulted in the demise of athlete-turned-dacoit Paan Singh Tomar in 1981, breathed his last in Pune on Friday at the age of 72. Raman’s career was marked by remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication to maintaining law and order.
An Exceptional Career Highlighted by Courageous Leadership
Belonging to the 1975 batch of IPS officers, Raman’s notable career milestone was his role as the superintendent of police in Madhya Pradesh’s Bhind district when he led a grueling 14-hour encounter against Paan Singh Tomar on October 1, 1981. This operation was hailed as one of the most significant accomplishments of his career. Over the years, Raman contributed extensively to anti-terrorist and anti-Naxal operations and served in various crucial capacities, including the Madhya Pradesh police, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF), and Railway Police.
A Shocking Loss for the IPS Fraternity
Vijay Raman’s passing, attributed to his battle with cancer, came as a sudden shock to his family and colleagues. His wife, Veena Raman, revealed that he had been undergoing treatment for cancer since February this year. Veena had been planning to document her husband’s extraordinary journey in the police services through a book.
Tributes to an Exceptional Leader
N Ramachandran, President of the Indian Police Foundation and a close colleague of Raman, lauded his professionalism, compassion, and strong leadership. Raman’s contributions extended to handling security for four Prime Ministers from 1985 to 1995 and spearheading significant operations during his tenure.
Awards and Recognitions
Throughout his 36-year career in the police service, Raman received numerous awards and honors, including the President’s Police Medal for Gallantry in 1981, the Indian Police Medal for Meritorious Service in 1991, and the President’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service in 2001. His extraordinary achievements extended beyond law enforcement; he held Guinness World Records and Limca Records for circumnavigating the world in a made-in-India car in 1993.
A Life of Service and Dedication
After retiring in February 2011, Raman settled in Pune but continued his service as a member of the Special Investigating Team (SIT) for the Vyapam scam in Bhopal. He also served as an administrator at the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute (BORI), Pune, for two years.
Vijay Raman’s Legacy
Vijay Raman leaves behind a legacy of courageous leadership and exceptional service to the nation. He is survived by his wife Veena and son Vikram, with his contributions to Indian law enforcement and society forever remembered.
