Controversy Erupts Over Appointment of UP 'Encounter Specialist' as Poll Observer in West Bengal
'Tell Him To Stay In Line': UP 'Encounter Specialist' Appointed As Bengal Poll Observer Triggers Row
News 18
Image: News 18
The appointment of Ajay Pal Sharma, a controversial Indian Police Service officer known for his aggressive policing tactics, as a poll observer in South 24 Parganas, West Bengal, has sparked outrage among opposition parties. His stern warnings to local police regarding TMC leader Jehangir Khan have raised concerns about electoral fairness.
- 01Ajay Pal Sharma, an IPS officer from Uttar Pradesh, has been appointed as a poll observer in West Bengal.
- 02His instructions to police regarding TMC leader Jehangir Khan have drawn criticism from opposition parties.
- 03The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has labeled Sharma as corrupt and questioned his impartiality.
- 04The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) defends Sharma, asserting his role is to ensure a fair election.
- 05Sharma is known for his aggressive policing style and has a controversial past.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Ajay Pal Sharma, an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from the Uttar Pradesh cadre, has been appointed as a poll observer for the upcoming elections in South 24 Parganas, West Bengal. This decision has sparked controversy, particularly after Sharma was seen issuing stern warnings to police officers regarding TMC leader Jehangir Khan, who is accused of intimidating local law enforcement. In a viral video, Sharma emphasized that any misconduct would be dealt with strictly, stating, "Tell him to stay in line." The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has condemned Sharma, labeling him as corrupt and questioning the Election Commission's choice of an observer with a controversial background, including allegations of involvement in a cash-for-postings scandal. In response, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has defended Sharma, arguing that his presence will help ensure the elections are the most free and fair in decades. Sharma, known for his aggressive policing style, has been involved in numerous high-risk operations and is often referred to as the 'Singham' of the UP police. His appointment comes at a critical time as the election in West Bengal intensifies, particularly in TMC strongholds.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The appointment of a controversial officer as a poll observer may influence voter perceptions and the overall electoral process in West Bengal.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Do you believe the appointment of Ajay Pal Sharma as a poll observer will affect the fairness of the elections?
Connecting to poll...
More about Election Commission of India
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.





