No Political Interference: Tamil Nadu CM Orders District Officials to Combat Crime
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay on Monday directed District Collectors and Superintendents of Police to tackle crimes effectively by identifying root causes and maximizing public safety.
Speaking at the first two-day joint conference of Collectors, SPs and other senior police officials since his Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK)-led government assumed office in May, Mr. Vijay stressed the need to crack down on drug trafficking and protect natural resources from plunder. He emphasized that no wrongdoers, regardless of their standing, should escape swift and impartial punishment.
“District Collectors and Superintendents of Police should actively monitor and take action against drug trafficking and smuggling of mineral resources,” Mr. Vijay said at the conference held at the Secretariat here.
“Collectors and SPs should take steps to prevent criminal incidents by identifying the root cause. A change should be brought about in the behaviour of those who disturb law and order,” he said in his opening remarks.
The Chief Minister also stressed the importance of ensuring the safety of women without compromise, making special arrangements for their protection, and paying special attention to the safety of students and children. He directed continuous monitoring of shops near schools and periodic checks where necessary, and ordered immediate arrest and punishment for those involved in drug-related crimes.
Mr. Vijay emphasized that people elected the TVK-led government for social justice and an administration that is transparent, honest, and corruption-free. “We must pay special attention to basic needs such as rations, education, drinking water, health, electricity, road facilities, and bus facilities,” he said.
On law and order, the Chief Minister stated, “You can decide freely. Whoever the wrongdoers are, no matter how powerful they are, they should be punished immediately and impartially according to the law. Innocent persons should not be penalised.”
He also instructed Collectors to hold online meetings with officials ahead of public grievance redress meetings, and to treat farmers, fishermen, and persons with disabilities with courtesy and empathy while handling their grievances. Regular field visits and follow-up action on petitions were also emphasized.
The Chief Minister suggested that Collectors hold a law and order meeting every month and coordinate with relevant departments. He underscored the importance of consulting legal experts on crucial cases to ensure wrongdoers do not escape the law.
Apart from District Collectors and Superintendents of Police, Deputy Inspectors General of Police, the Director General of Police, and heads of various government departments also participated in the conference.
