The gripping book A Don’s Nemesis, authored by Dr. Amar Kumar Pandey (IPS), Former Director General of Police, Karnataka, was officially unveiled by Mr. Manoj Yadava (IPS), Director General, Railway Protection Force, Ministry of Railways, Government of India, at the Convention Centre, Jamia Hamdard on February 25, 2025. The event saw an assembly of distinguished guests, bureaucrats, law enforcement officials, and academicians who gathered to commemorate this momentous release.
The book A Don’s Nemesis provides a compelling inside look into the high-stakes pursuit of the notorious gangster Ravi Pujari, a fugitive with a Red Corner Notice against him, wanted for serious crimes and extortion across India. Dr. Pandey recounts the 26-year-long global manhunt that ultimately led to Pujari’s extradition from Senegal in 2019. His detailed narrative highlights the complexities of transnational organised crime and the extensive collaboration required between multiple law enforcement agencies to bring fugitives to justice.
In his address, Dr. Pandey shared profound insights into the investigative strategies and psychological profiling that guided the chase. He emphasised the perils of organised crime in undermining global security and acknowledged the unwavering perseverance of his team. Citing Khalil Gibran’s quote: “You are the Way and the Wayfarers”, he reflected on the determination and resilience required to track down high-profile criminals.
The event commenced with a recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by a welcome address from Prof. Reshma Nasreen, Dean of Students’ Welfare, Jamia Hamdard. She underscored the book’s (A Don’s Nemesis) academic significance and its contribution to criminological studies.
Amrit Lugun, IFS, Former Ambassador of India to Greece, who played a crucial role in the covert operation, shared first hand experiences of the meticulous efforts leading to Pujari’s capture. His address shed light on the diplomatic and strategic coordination involved in extradition cases.
Chief Guest Manoj Yadava (IPS), Director General, Railway Protection Force, Ministry of Railways, Government of India, commended Dr. Pandey and his team, stating: “This book is a testament to the principle that no matter how long it takes, the law ultimately prevails over outlaws.” He encouraged students to consider careers in public service, highlighting the importance of dedication and integrity in upholding justice.
Guest of Honour, Rakesh Asthana (IPS), former Commissioner of Police, Delhi, lauded the book as an essential resource for law enforcement officers. He outlined the legal and bureaucratic intricacies of tracking fugitives across borders, praising Dr. Pandey’s expertise in handling such a complex mission.
The event was held under the patronage of Hammad Ahmed, Chancellor, Jamia Hamdard. In his presidential remarks, Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) M. Afshar Alam said: “This book showcases India’s commitment to international law and justice. Strengthening our police force is vital for national security and development.” He emphasised the book’s dual role as an educational tool and an inspiration for future law enforcement professionals.
The launch witnessed the presence of an array of eminent bureaucrats and police officials, including Kamal Nayan Choubey (IPS), Former DGP, Jharkhand; Sanjay Kundu (IPS), Former DGP, Himachal Pradesh; Anand Kumar (IPS), Former DGP, Uttar Pradesh; V. K. Ravi (IPS), Former DGP, Tamil Nadu; Asif Ali (IPS), Additional C.P., Delhi Police; Parvez Alam (IAAS), Principal AG; B. N. Jha, (IRS) Principal Chief Commissioner; Vishnu Darbari, Joint Secretary, Govt. of India; Kaushal Kishor, Advisor, TRAI; Madhup Tiwari (IPS), Special C. P., Delhi Police; Udayan Banerjee, IG, CISF; Mahmood Akhtar, (IRS), former Commissioner Customs; Achin Garg (IPS), Additional DCP, South Delhi; K. M. Priyanka (IPS), ACP, Sangam Vihar; several senior officers from various government departments, Dean of Schools, Head of Departments, faculties and students of Jamia Hamdard.
Adding to the excitement, it was announced that A Don’s Nemesis is set to be adapted into a cinematic production, promising to bring this gripping saga to a wider audience.
The event was organised by Syed Saud Akhtar, Controller of Examinations, Jamia Hamdard, with the Literary Club under the leadership of Prof. Khursheed A. Ansari managing the coordination. Dr. M. A. Sikander, Registrar, Jamia Hamdard, delivered the vote of thanks, marking the conclusion of the event with the National Anthem.
