Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on Monday told district collectors and police chiefs to act fearlessly against criminals without political interference, saying even the most powerful offenders should be punished swiftly and impartially under the law, as reported by the news agency PTI.
Addressing the first joint conference of district collectors, superintendents of police and senior officials since the TVK government assumed office in May, Vijay directed the administration to crack down on drug trafficking, illegal sand mining and organised crime while ensuring the safety of women and children.
“Regarding law and order, 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,” Vijay said.
He asked collectors and SPs to identify the root causes of crime instead of merely responding to incidents and called for strict action against those involved in drug trafficking and the illegal smuggling of mineral resources.
The chief minister also directed officials to intensify surveillance around schools, order periodic inspections and ensure the immediate arrest of those involved in drug-related offences.
Women’s safety should not be compromised under any circumstances, Vijay said, adding that officials must also pay special attention to the security of students and children.
Calling for a transparent and corruption-free administration, Vijay said the TVK government had been elected to deliver social justice and improve access to essential services, including drinking water, healthcare, education, electricity and public transport.
He also announced plans to constitute district-level land dispute resolution committees to address disputes that often trigger violent crimes in rural Tamil Nadu.
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Published By:
India Today Web Desk
Published On:
Jun 29, 2026 21:42 IST
