Election Commission Investigates Former Nagaon DC Over Allegations

The Election Commission of India has registered a complaint against Devasish Sharma, the former District Commissioner of Nagaon, amid allegations of administrative irregularities and political aspirations. Following a complaint from Dhubri MP Rakibul Hussain, the ECI is set to conduct an independent inquiry into Sharma's conduct during his tenure. Hussain has raised concerns about Sharma's voluntary retirement and its implications for scrutiny of his actions while in office. The investigation aims to ensure accountability and transparency in the electoral process as Sharma's potential candidacy in the upcoming bye-election comes under scrutiny.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 5, 2026, 12:34 IST

Investigation Launched Against Devasish Sharma

File image of Nagaon Ex-Nagaon DC, Devasish Sharma. (AT Photo)

Guwahati, Sept 5: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has officially lodged a complaint against Devasish Sharma, the former District Commissioner and District Election Officer of Nagaon, due to allegations of administrative misconduct and concerns regarding his political aspirations ahead of the Nagaon Lok Sabha bye-election.

The ECI's Public Grievance Redressal System (PGRS) Cell has notified Dhubri MP Rakibul Hussain that his complaint has been registered via the National Grievance Services (NGS) portal and has been sent to relevant senior officials for further action.

This action follows Hussain's appeal to the Commission on September 3, where he requested a thorough and timely investigation into the allegations surrounding Sharma's behavior during his tenure in public office.

In his correspondence, submitted through the Chief Electoral Officer of Assam, the Congress MP insisted that Sharma should remain in government service until the inquiry is concluded. This request referenced a previous complaint made by Hussain on August 30.

Hussain expressed concerns regarding Sharma's application for voluntary retirement, arguing that his departure from government service should not exempt him from scrutiny regarding his actions while in office.

The MP has also connected Sharma's voluntary retirement to speculation about his potential candidacy as a BJP nominee in the forthcoming Nagaon Lok Sabha bye-election.

In his representation dated September 3, Hussain called for what he termed an independent, thorough, and timely investigation.

He referenced media reports and social media discussions about Sharma's possible political ambitions and included photographs that he claimed depicted the former DC engaging in significant public outreach.

Hussain has consistently argued that a public servant's exit from government service during an election period should not allow for the evasion of scrutiny regarding decisions made while in office.

He urged the Commission to ensure that any proceedings against Sharma are conducted independently and within a specified timeframe.

Sharma has since received approval for his voluntary retirement from the Assam government.

It is important to note that the ECI's registration of the complaint does not imply any conclusion regarding the allegations. The issue has been forwarded to the appropriate senior officials for their input and necessary actions.