Jaipur / ACB cop, instrumental in exposing corruption rackets, battling cancer

Inspector Vikram Singh Shekhawat’s name is well known in the state’s Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB). From his subordinates to former and present DGPs, everyone recognizes him for his contribution in exposing infamous mining and NRHM scams. Now, the officer who used to spend 10 to 18 hours daily on phone surveillances to facilitate the bureau in gathering incriminating evidences is battling with multiple cancer.

Recognizing his integrity, everyone from a constable to senior police officers is doing his or her bid to help him and his family. Singh’s journey with Rajasthan police too started on a tragic note when he lost his father Shiv Pal Singh.

“His father was posted at Bagar police station in Jhunjhunu when he was attacked and killed by a group of people while he had gone to arrest some murder accused. He had sustained grave injuries and succumbed on the spot. Thus, Vikram joined Rajasthan police on compassionate grounds on January 15, 2002,” said a senior police officer who wished not to be named while taking to TOI. Terming him to be obedient, dutiful and over-enthusiastic, Ram Singh, additional SP at RAC under whom Vikram learnt the basics in his police duty in 2005, said, “After completing his training, he was first posted in Bharatpur range where he worked with me at criminal intelligence unit (CIU) at IG office Jaipur. He was an introvert person. But when he gets a task, he will come out with flying colours. Even today, when he is diagnosed with multiple cancer, he has a will power to overcome it.” Alok Tripathi, director general of police, ACB who had visited him at his house near Ajmer Road, said, “Even after taking chemotherapy and long medication in Mumbai, he was keen to join duty soon.”

“Sir, bahut kaam pada hai, jaldi office aaonga (Sir a lot of work is pending. I will join the office soon),” Vikram told Tripathi.

Every day at the private hospital where Vikram is on ventilator, hundreds of policemen are visiting him. “He is the actual force behind our act of dismantling various scams from mining, NRHM, Sahi Ram Bishnoi case and recent case of mining racket busted by ACB. Last time, when I met him he shown utter optimism,” said M N Dinesh, inspector general of police, ACB.

V K Singh, who too had a long stint as IG, ACB, said, “Seeing the kind of gathering every day at hospital, I am really proud of Vikram Singh. He is not a celebrity or a big gun but has earned name, fame and glory through his dedication.”

People close to Vikram said that in past two days, he has shown some signs of improvement. “He was unconscious but has opened his eyes on Friday. Let’s hope for the best,” said Laxman Narayan Sharma, a constable who is along with Vikram since June 8 when the latter was diagnosed with cancer.