Madurai witnessed a firm commitment to police accountability and public safety as Vijayendra S Bidari officially assumed the role of South Zone Inspector General (IG) on Monday. The senior IPS officer minced no words, declaring that strict disciplinary action would follow if any police officer under his command is found guilty of improper conduct.
Priorities and Immediate Action Plan
Addressing the media, IG Bidari outlined his immediate roadmap. He announced plans to soon embark on visits to all districts within the south zone to personally investigate various pending issues. His top priorities are crystal clear: maintaining robust law and order and controlling crime effectively. He issued a specific warning, emphasizing that cases related to women and children would be dealt with utmost severity, and perpetrators would face stringent legal consequences.
To tackle crime at its roots, the officer revealed a strategic plan. Police stations in southern districts identified with high crime rates will be singled out for special attention. The goal is twofold: to significantly curtail criminal activities and to transform these stations into model police stations that citizens can trust and rely upon.
Focus on Narcotics, Cybercrime, and Illegal Mining
Expanding on his agenda, Bidari highlighted key areas demanding intensified focus. Aligning with the state government's vision, he stated that under the 'Drug-Free Tamil Nadu' initiative, serious action will be taken against both drug peddlers and users. Furthermore, special attention will be directed towards combating the growing menaces of cybercrime and illegal sand mining offences, which have been plaguing the region.
When questioned about the potential rise in crimes linked to social media platforms like Instagram, the IG assured that monitoring mechanisms for social media posts would be enhanced. He promised stringent action against offenders who misuse these platforms for illegal activities, aiming to create a safer digital space for the public.
A Seasoned Officer Returns to Tamil Nadu
IG Vijayendra S Bidari brings a wealth of diverse experience to his new posting. A 2005-batch IPS officer of the Tamil Nadu cadre, he has a deep connection with the region, having served as the Superintendent of Police for Madurai district from 2014 to 2017. Prior to his current appointment, he held the position of Additional Commissioner of Police (Headquarters) in the Greater Chennai Police.
His career took a national turn in 2017 when he joined the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). During his 7.5-year tenure with the premier agency, he headed various units and was further elevated to the post of Joint Director. In this capacity, he oversaw critical divisions including the International Operations Division, Coordination Division, and the International Police Cooperation Unit. After his extensive stint at the CBI, Bidari returned to his home cadre in Tamil Nadu in April 2025, before being appointed to lead the South Zone.
Concluding his address, IG Bidari acknowledged the groundwork laid by his predecessors, assuring that the many good schemes implemented by previous IGs would be continued and built upon for the benefit of the people.
