Standing Against the Underworld: The Shivaram B Story

Shivaram B and the Battle for Bengaluru’s Streets

During the 1980s, Bengaluru went through one of its darkest phases. The city was deeply influenced by the underworld, and crime unfolded openly on the streets. Gang wars could erupt at any moment, and innocent civilians often became victims. People lived in constant fear, hesitant to even step out of their homes. Land extortion, contract killings, and organized criminal activities became disturbingly common, turning everyday life into a nightmare for ordinary citizens.

Several notorious underworld figures such as Kothwal Ramachandra, Oil Kumar, Jayraj, and Murgi Faiyaz dominated this era. Their influence left a permanent scar on the city’s history, marking this period as one of fear, uncertainty, and lawlessness.

The Nemesis of Nasru

Amid this chaos, a fearless Sub-Inspector, Shivaram B, emerged as a determined force against crime. Under the leadership of Police Commissioner B. G. Harlankar and DCP S. Mariswamy, Bengaluru witnessed the formation of the Anti-Rowdy Squad—the first of its kind in the city. The goal was simple yet dangerous: dismantle the underworld and restore peace. Despite immense pressure, threats, and operational challenges, the effort to bring criminal networks under control provided deep professional satisfaction and renewed hope for the city.

One of the most defining moments of his career was the encounter with Nasru, a dreaded gangster feared across Bengaluru. 

Nasru was known for committing daylight robberies with absolute audacity. He would attack shops and financial institutions in broad daylight, leaving people terrified and helpless. His crimes were well-planned, relying on inside information, and he operated with a violent gang that included members of his own family.

This period also saw a disturbing rise in crimes linked to live-band culture, where women from economically weaker backgrounds—particularly from the North-East—were exploited, sexually harassed, and, in some cases, subjected to attempted murder. These crimes revealed a darker social underbelly that extended beyond organized crime into deep social exploitation.

By this time, Shivaram B was serving as an ACP. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, he formed a special squad consisting of sincere officers and intelligence operatives. Acting on credible intelligence, the team surrounded Nasru’s hideout in Anekal and called upon him to surrender. Instead of complying, Nasru opened fire, critically injuring a Sub-Inspector. In that moment, to protect the team and prevent further loss of life, self-defensive firing became unavoidable. Nasru was killed in the encounter in May 2005.

Subsequent investigations led to the rescue of several women who were being held captive and resulted in the arrest and imprisonment of multiple offenders, many of whom received ten-year sentences. For leading this high-risk operation, Shivaram B was awarded the Shourya Prashasti, one of Karnataka’s rare and prestigious honors.

Throughout his career, he faced numerous challenges—political pressure, personal threats, and public misunderstanding. These, he believed, are often the price honest officers pay for doing their duty with integrity. Police work remains one of the most misunderstood professions, offering no certainty of safety or even tomorrow. One of the most important lessons he learned was that prevention is always better than cure. Anticipating crimes, preventing riots, and maintaining social harmony define true success in policing.

Challenges and Lessons as an ACP

He firmly believed in building bridges between the police and the public. Trust, approachability, humility, and strong community engagement are essential for effective law enforcement. Policing is not merely about catching criminals; it is about maintaining peace and earning the confidence of society.

At the same time, he acknowledged the urgent need for reforms within the Indian Police Department. Modern criminals often possess advanced technology—satellite phones, sophisticated weapons, and financial backing—while law enforcement struggles with procedural delays and limited resources. Although improvements have been made, gaps in technology, equipment, and streamlined processes remain. Accountability within the police system is extremely strict, whereas criminals often exploit legal loopholes. Addressing these imbalances is crucial for effective justice.

He also strongly advocated for rehabilitation, believing that no one is born a criminal. Poverty, lack of guidance, and circumstance often push individuals toward crime. Overcrowded prisons frequently become breeding grounds for further criminality instead of centers of reform. Counseling, psychological support, education, and family intervention are essential, especially for minor offenders. While hardened criminals with political backing remain a challenge, awareness programs and addiction control can help prevent repeat offenses.

Transition to Politics and Disillusionment

Being born and raised in Bengaluru and serving the city gave him a deep understanding of its social fabric. This connection eventually led him toward politics, with the hope of continuing public service on a larger scale. However, he became disillusioned by caste politics, exorbitant election costs, and unethical practices like vote-buying. These realities pushed him away from active politics, though his commitment to public service never diminished.

Community Service After Retirement

After retiring as an ACP, he dedicated himself fully to community work. He played a key role in cultural initiatives such as founding the Kadale Kai Parishe festival in Malleshwaram and actively participating in Shivaratri celebrations. His environmental contributions included planting thousands of trees, promoting urban greenery, adopting government schools, and ensuring education for tribal children in the Western Ghats.

Despite widespread negativity surrounding the police force, he firmly believes that policing remains a noble profession. Whether one serves as a constable, Sub-Inspector, DSP, ASP, or IPS officer, the role carries immense responsibility and honor. Police officers are not just enforcers of the law—they are protectors, counselors, mediators, and social workers. When carried out with integrity, dedication, and respect for duty, policing offers deep personal fulfillment and earns the trust of society.