Vijay Shankar, former CBI director and an iconic figure in Indian law enforcement, passed away on December 3, 2024, at the age of 76, after a prolonged illness. A 1969-batch IPS officer, Shankar led investigations into high-profile cases, including the Aarushi-Hemraj double murder, the Telgi stamp paper scam, and the extradition of gangster Abu Salem.
His tenure as CBI director from 2005 to 2008 was marked by professionalism and integrity. Shankar also served in critical roles such as heading the National Disaster Response Force and the Border Security Force during the peak of militancy in Jammu and Kashmir. A recipient of the President’s police medals for distinguished service, his legacy as a sharp, principled, and courageous officer is fondly remembered.