Vijay directs Collectors, SPs to effectively solve crimes and act without political interference

Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay addressed officials at a conference in Chennai on Monday. | Photo credit: Special arrangement

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay on Monday directed district collectors and superintendents of police to effectively tackle crimes by identifying the root cause and maximize public safety.

Stressing the need to crack down on drug trafficking and protect natural resources from plunder, he said no offenders, regardless of their status, should escape swift and impartial punishment.

Addressing the first two-day joint conference of Collectors, SPs and other senior police officials since his Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK)-led government took office in May, Mr Vijay said officials “could act without political interference”.

“District Collectors and Superintendents of Police should actively monitor and take action against drug trade and mineral smuggling,” Mr. Vijay told a conference held at the Secretariat here.

“Collectors and SPs should take steps to prevent criminal incidents by identifying the root cause. There should be a change in the behavior of those who disrupt law and order,” he said in his inaugural address.

The safety of women should be ensured without any compromise and special measures should be taken to protect them. Special attention should also be paid to the safety of students and children, he said.

“Shops near schools should be continuously monitored. Regular inspections should be carried out if necessary. Those involved in drug crimes should be immediately arrested and punished,” the chief minister said.

“For Social Justice”

Mr. Vijay emphasized that the people elected the TVK-led government for social justice and for an administration that is transparent, honest and corruption-free. “We need to pay special attention to basic needs like rations, education, drinking water, health, electricity, road facilities and bus facilities,” he said.

“When it comes to law and order, you are free to decide. Whoever the culprits are, however powerful they are, they should be punished immediately and impartially according to the law. Innocent people should not be punished,” the prime minister added.

Collectors should hold online meetings with officials before public meetings to redress grievances. Mr. Vijay asked them to treat farmers, fishermen and disabled persons with courtesy and empathy while redressing their grievances. Officials should conduct regular field visits and follow up on petitions received, he said.

The Chief Minister suggested that the Collectors hold a law and order meeting every month and coordinate with the concerned departments.

He stressed the importance of consulting legal experts on major cases so that offenders do not escape the law.

Apart from District Collectors and Inspectors of Police, Deputy Inspectors General of Police, Director General of Police and heads of various ministries also attended the conference.

Published – 29 Jun 2026 23:19 IST