Will eradicate drug menace, strengthen women's safety: New ADGP P. Vijayan

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Newly appointed Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order), P. Vijayan, said that eliminating the spread of synthetic drugs among youngsters and future generations will be his foremost priority.

Speaking to Kerala Kaumudi, Vijayan said the Home Department's 'Operation Toofan' will be implemented strongly. He noted that Kerala Police would target drug manufacturing units and storage facilities located outside the state that are involved in supplying narcotics to Kerala.

"We will work closely with police forces in other states and central agencies to dismantle drug trafficking networks and cut off the supply chain at its source," he said.

The senior police officer also stressed that ensuring the safety of women and children would remain a key focus area.

"Women should be able to travel safely at any time of the day or night. Strengthening their sense of security is one of our priorities," Vijayan said.

He said steps will be taken to ensure respectful behaviour by police officers and that public complaints are not ignored. He is expected to assume charge next week.

Investigation that became a study material
The investigation led by P. Vijayan into the Chelambra bank robbery case later became a study subject at six American universities, including Harvard University. He has received the President's Police Medal for Distinguished Service. Vijayan gained recognition as an investigator after solving several high-profile cases, including an email threat sent to the Prime Minister and the famous Tantri case. He was also invited to participate alongside the Prime Minister in the 100th episode of the Mann Ki Baat programme.

Vijayan has service remaining until 2028. He is a native of Puthoormadom in Kozhikode district. His wife, M. Beena, is an IAS officer. The couple was earlier selected by South Indian Bank as a model officer couple. For a Harvard fellowship application, Vijayan wrote a 750-word account of his own life story.

From construction worker to IPS officer

• Due to poverty, he had to stop his studies after Class 10 and work in the construction sector.
• He carried building materials during the day and studied at night to complete his SSLC and Pre-Degree education.
• To pay college fees, he worked in soap-making and mattress manufacturing.
• He later earned an MA and MPhil and became a college lecturer.
• After several attempts and years of hard work, he cleared the Civil Services Examination and became an IPS officer on his fourth attempt.
• Introduced the Shadow Police system.
• Launched the Pink Police initiative for women's safety.
• Started the Punyam Poonkavanam project to keep Sabarimala clean.
• Played a key role in launching the Student Police Cadet project and its initial form, 'Janakeeyam'
• Launched "Our Responsibility to Children" for child welfare.
• Led the 'Oru Vayaroottam' initiative, which provided food to thousands of people.
• Started the 'Hope' programme for students who failed exams or dropped out of studies.