Zanjeer

The film opens with Vijay Khanna, a brutally honest officer, being transferred repeatedly for standing up to corruption. In Hyderabad, he breaks up an illegal political demonstration that blocks traffic and hinders an ambulance, illustrating his uncompromising stance. This event sets the tone for his ongoing battle against powerful interests.

Vijay is transferred to the Mumbai crime branch, marking his 17th transfer in five years. The move places him in a volatile environment where he can pursue major criminal networks. This transition reinforces the film’s theme of constant reform and retaliation within the system.

Vijay is haunted by memories of his parents' murder on his birthday, a trauma that fuels his relentless pursuit of justice. He recalls a mysterious man in a black raincoat riding a white horse, a clue to the mastermind behind the crime. The memory keeps his personal stake in the case intensely personal.

Vijay is handed the brutal murder case of district collector Prakash Sathe, a top officer from the 1994 IAS batch. The key eyewitness Mala has seen the murder but is reluctant to cooperate. Mala had recently arrived from New York to attend a wedding, adding international intrigue to the case.

Teja, the head of an oil mafia, wants Mala silenced to prevent her testimony. The media frames the murder as part of a larger conspiracy that could derail Vijay’s investigation. The tension rises as Teja’s criminal empire shows its reach and urgency.

Vijay confronts Sher Khan, a local goon who trades in illegal cars but claims ethics in his business. They duel at Sher Khan's den, and though the fight ends in a draw, Sher Khan is impressed by Vijay’s integrity. He extends a hand of friendship and pledges to help Vijay, changing the dynamic of the case.

Jaydev, a reporter, initially criticizes Vijay but soon respects his dedication. He provides valuable information about the oil mafia that aids the investigation. Jaydev’s evolving stance helps broaden the case’s perspective and reach.

Vijay tracks Mala to her hotel room, where she is reluctant to get involved. After witnessing the dead body of Prakash Sathe and learning the fate of Mala’s family, she agrees to give a statement. With the help of a sketch artist, Mala creates a portrait of the murderer, triggering further danger as attackers target her.

Vijay offers Mala shelter in his home to keep her safe while she assists the investigation. She becomes an increasingly important ally and their relationship deepens as the case intensifies. The bond between protector and witness adds emotional weight to the pursuit of Teja.

Vijay locates Kataria, Teja's henchman, who reveals Teja's petrol theft scheme—stealing fuel from tankers and adulterating it with Naptha and Kerosene. The operation funds Teja's empire and fuels the 1000 crore industry in Maharashtra. Teja retaliates by killing Kataria in lockup, and Vijay is blamed for excessive force and suspended.

With Kataria's information, Vijay uncovers links to Teja’s wider network and implicates Bosco and inspector Saalwe in Kataria’s murder. The murder of Jaydev by Teja’s men triggers widespread panic, and the commissioner reinstates Vijay to continue the investigation. The case expands beyond a single crime to a broader conspiracy.

Vijay orchestrates raids on Teja's oil refineries and hideouts to dismantle the operation. Teja’s men attack Vijay and Mala during a dining-out, but Sher Khan intervenes just in time to help them survive. The assault underscores Teja’s desperation as his criminal world begins to crumble.

Teja and Mona flee to an old mine where Vijay corners them. He recognizes a tattoo on Teja’s arm, proving Teja is the man who killed Vijay’s parents. Teja admits killing Prashant Khanna, and Vijay retaliates with violent force, ending Teja’s reign in an explosive confrontation.

In the aftermath, Teja's wealth is seized and Mona is implicated in his crimes. Sher Khan and Mala visit Vijay at the police station, and a new drug mafia case appears on television, signaling that Vijay’s fight against corruption is far from over. The story closes on a note of continuing vigilance.