Controversy Erupts Over IPS Officer's Role in West Bengal Elections

The appointment of Ajay Pal Sharma as an election observer in West Bengal has ignited controversy, particularly due to his stern warning to TMC candidate Jahangir Khan regarding alleged intimidation of voters. The TMC has accused Sharma of using his position to threaten their candidates, while also highlighting his controversial past involving serious allegations. Political figures, including Akhilesh Yadav, have weighed in, criticizing Sharma's actions and labeling him a BJP agent. This unfolding situation raises questions about the integrity of the electoral process in West Bengal.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 27, 2026, 21:48 IST

Election Commission Appoints Ajay Pal Sharma as Observer

The Election Commission has designated Ajay Pal Sharma, an IPS officer from the Uttar Pradesh cadre, as an observer for the upcoming elections in West Bengal. He has been assigned to oversee police operations in South 24 Parganas, a region known to be a stronghold of the Trinamool Congress (TMC). This appointment has sparked controversy, particularly after Sharma issued a stern warning to TMC candidate Jahangir Khan, stating that any intimidation of the public would be met with serious consequences. A video of this warning has since gone viral on social media.

Sharma's Warning to TMC Candidate

In the circulated video, Ajay Pal Sharma can be heard saying, 'If there are reports of intimidation from Jahangir's supporters, we will take appropriate action. Don't say you weren't warned.' These comments come amid serious allegations against Jahangir Khan regarding threats to local residents in the Falta assembly constituency.

TMC Responds to Allegations

The TMC has accused Sharma of using his position to intimidate their candidate. During a press conference, the party criticized the involvement of the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, claiming that Sharma was parachuted into South 24 Parganas as a police observer. They described him as someone whose reputation is tied to a history of encounters and misuse of police authority.

Serious Allegations Against Ajay Pal Sharma

The TMC further highlighted past allegations against Sharma, noting that he was removed from his position as SP in Rampur, Uttar Pradesh, in January 2020 without formal procedures. He and five other IPS officers were implicated in a cash-for-posting scandal, leading to a recommendation for a vigilance inquiry by a Special Investigation Team.

Criminal Charges and Warnings

The party also mentioned that Sharma faced charges of criminal breach of trust and conspiracy, stemming from a complaint by a 30-year-old woman who accused him of misconduct. The TMC issued a warning to Sharma, stating, 'If you step out of line or act improperly as a neutral observer, you will face the consequences without any apologies.'

Reactions from Political Figures

Akhilesh Yadav, the leader of the Samajwadi Party, also commented on Sharma's video, labeling him as a BJP agent and asserting that those who undermine democracy will not escape accountability when the time comes.