Vishwanath Channappa Sajjanar, popularly known as V. C. Sajjanar, is a distinguished Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from the 1996 batch of the Telangana cadre. Renowned for his fearless approach to law enforcement and his pivotal role in high-profile encounters, Sajjanar has earned the moniker "Encounter Specialist" in India. His career, spanning nearly three decades, reflects a blend of discipline, strategic acumen, and a commitment to public safety. Currently serving as the Managing Director of the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC), Sajjanar’s journey from a small-town upbringing to a national figure is a testament to his resilience and dedication.
Early Life and Background
V. C. Sajjanar was born on October 24, 1968, in Hubballi (also spelled Hubli), a bustling city in Karnataka, India. Growing up in the Pagadi Oni area, he was raised in a middle-class family with strong values. His father, C. B. Sajjanar, was a tax consultant and a social activist, instilling in young Vishwanath a sense of duty and community service. His mother, Girija Sajjanar, provided a nurturing environment that emphasized education and integrity. These early influences shaped Sajjanar’s worldview and laid the groundwork for his future in public service.
Hubballi, known for its cultural heritage and educational institutions, offered Sajjanar a solid foundation. His early life in Karnataka, a state with a rich history of administrative excellence, likely inspired his ambition to join the prestigious Indian Police Service. For those searching "V. C. Sajjanar IPS early life," his roots in Hubballi are a key piece of his story, reflecting the humble beginnings of a man who would later become a national figure.
Education and Path to IPS
Sajjanar’s academic journey began at Lions English Medium School in Hubballi, where he completed his primary and high school education. Demonstrating a knack for academics, he pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce (B.Com) from J. G. College of Commerce, affiliated with Karnatak University in Dharwad. His interest in management and governance led him to enroll in a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) at the Kousali Institute of Management Studies, also under Karnatak University.
Armed with a strong educational background, Sajjanar set his sights on the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination, one of India’s toughest competitive exams. In 1996, at the age of 28, he successfully cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination, earning a coveted spot in the Indian Police Service. His training at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy in Hyderabad equipped him with the skills and knowledge needed for a career in law enforcement. For those researching "V. C. Sajjanar IPS education," his academic rigor and UPSC success highlight his intellectual foundation.
Career in the Indian Police Service
Sajjanar’s career in the IPS began in 1996 when he was allotted to the Andhra Pradesh cadre (later Telangana after the state’s bifurcation in 2014). Over the years, he has held a variety of roles, each showcasing his versatility and leadership. Below is a detailed look at his career trajectory:
Early Postings: Assistant Superintendent of Police
Sajjanar’s first significant posting was as Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) in Jangaon, Warangal District, Telangana. This role introduced him to grassroots policing, where he tackled local law-and-order issues and gained hands-on experience in rural administration. His early years in Warangal set the stage for his reputation as a proactive officer unafraid to confront crime head-on.
Superintendent of Police, Warangal: The 2008 Acid Attack Encounter
In 2008, Sajjanar served as the Superintendent of Police (SP) in Warangal District, a tenure that catapulted him into the spotlight. That year, three youths—Shakamuri Srinivasa Rao, Potharaju Harikrishna, and Bajjuri Sanjay—attacked two engineering students, Swapnika and Pranitha, with acid after Swapnika rejected a romantic proposal. The brutal assault sparked public outrage. During a crime scene reconstruction, the accused allegedly attacked the police and attempted to flee, prompting Sajjanar’s team to open fire, resulting in their deaths. This encounter earned him widespread acclaim and the label "Encounter Specialist," a term that would follow him throughout his career.
Intelligence and Anti-Naxal Operations
Sajjanar’s expertise in intelligence and counterinsurgency saw him appointed to key roles in Telangana’s Special Intelligence Branch (SIB). As Deputy Inspector General (DIG) and later Inspector General (IG) of Police, he played a crucial role in curbing Maoist activities in the state. His strategic leadership in the Greyhounds, an elite anti-Naxal unit, led to the elimination of notorious Maoist-turned-gangster Mohammed Nayeemuddin in 2016. Nayeemuddin’s encounter in Shadnagar, where he allegedly fired at police with an AK-47, further solidified Sajjanar’s reputation as a decisive leader.
Cyberabad Police Commissioner: The 2019 Hyderabad Encounter
In March 2018, Sajjanar took charge as the Commissioner of Police for Cyberabad Metropolitan Police, replacing Sandeep Shandilya. His tenure peaked on December 6, 2019, when he led the encounter of four men—Mohammad Areef, Jollu Shiva, Jollu Naveen, and Chintakunta Chennakeshavulu—accused of raping and murdering a 27-year-old veterinarian, Priyanka Reddy, in Hyderabad. The accused were killed during a crime scene reconstruction on National Highway 44 after reportedly attacking police and attempting to escape. The incident, dubbed the "Disha case," sparked national debate, with many hailing Sajjanar as a hero, while others criticized the extrajudicial nature of the action. For those searching "V. C. Sajjanar IPS Hyderabad encounter," this event remains his most defining moment.
Managing Director, TSRTC
On August 25, 2021, Sajjanar transitioned from policing to administration, assuming the role of Managing Director of the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC). This shift showcased his adaptability, as he now oversees one of India’s largest public transport systems, serving millions of commuters. His focus on operational efficiency and public welfare continues to reflect his service-oriented ethos.
Key Achievements and Contributions
- Encounter Operations: Sajjanar’s involvement in the 2008 Warangal and 2019 Hyderabad encounters highlighted his no-nonsense approach to crime, earning him both praise and scrutiny.
- Anti-Naxal Success: His leadership in the SIB and Greyhounds significantly reduced Maoist influence in Telangana, a feat acknowledged by DGP M. Mahender Reddy.
- Women and Child Safety: As Cyberabad Commissioner, Sajjanar prioritized initiatives to enhance safety for women and children, aligning with his community-focused policing philosophy.
- IT Sector Development: He organized national and international events to bolster Hyderabad’s IT hub status, balancing security with economic growth.
Personal Life and Public Persona
Sajjanar is married to Anupa Sajjanar, and the couple has two children. While he keeps his family life private, his public persona is that of a disciplined, soft-spoken officer with a steely resolve. His brother, a medical practitioner in Hubballi, has noted the family’s pride in Sajjanar’s achievements. For those curious about "V. C. Sajjanar IPS family," his personal life remains a low-key contrast to his high-profile career.
Impact and Legacy
V. C. Sajjanar’s career exemplifies the complexities of policing in India, where officers often navigate public expectations, legal frameworks, and societal challenges. His encounters have sparked debates about justice and human rights, yet his contributions to law enforcement and public transport underscore his versatility. As one of approximately 4,000 IPS officers in India, Sajjanar’s story resonates with aspirants and citizens alike, making him a polarizing yet influential figure.
Top FAQs About V. C. Sajjanar, IPS
- Who is V. C. Sajjanar?
V. C. Sajjanar is an IPS officer of the 1996 batch, Telangana cadre, known for his roles as Cyberabad Police Commissioner and current Managing Director of TSRTC. - What is V. C. Sajjanar’s current position?
As of April 2025, he serves as the Managing Director of the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC). - Why is V. C. Sajjanar called an encounter specialist?
He earned this title due to his involvement in the 2008 Warangal acid attack encounter and the 2019 Hyderabad veterinarian rape-murder encounter. - What was the 2019 Hyderabad encounter?
On December 6, 2019, Sajjanar led the Cyberabad Police in killing four accused in the rape and murder of Priyanka Reddy during a crime scene reconstruction. - Where was V. C. Sajjanar born?
He was born in Hubballi, Karnataka, on October 24, 1968. - What is V. C. Sajjanar’s educational background?
He holds a B.Com from J. G. College of Commerce and an MBA from Kousali Institute of Management Studies, Karnatak University. - What roles has V. C. Sajjanar held in his career?
He has served as ASP in Jangaon, SP in Warangal, IG in Special Intelligence Branch, Cyberabad Police Commissioner, and now MD of TSRTC. - Is V. C. Sajjanar married?
Yes, he is married to Anupa Sajjanar and has two children. - What was V. C. Sajjanar’s role in anti-Naxal operations?
As IG of the Special Intelligence Branch, he led efforts to curb Maoist activities in Telangana, including the 2016 Nayeemuddin encounter. - How did V. C. Sajjanar become an IPS officer?
He cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination in 1996, joining the IPS in the Andhra Pradesh (now Telangana) cadre.