Kolkata/Lucknow: A high-profile entry by Uttar Pradesh cadre IPS officer Ajay Pal Sharma (2011 batch) into the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026 has triggered a political storm, with his on-ground action and strong remarks against alleged voter intimidation drawing sharp attention across party lines.
Known for his aggressive policing style and reputation as an “encounter specialist,” Sharma’s appointment as a Police Observer by the Election Commission of India has added a new dimension to the already heated electoral battle in West Bengal.
On-Ground Action in South 24 Parganas
Barely 48 hours before the second phase of polling, Sharma—deployed as Police Observer in South 24 Parganas—sprang into action following complaints of voter intimidation in the Falta Assembly constituency.
Leading a joint operation with teams from SSB, Flying Surveillance Team (FST), and Quick Reaction Team (QRT), Sharma conducted raids and inspections in the area.
In a viral video circulating on social media, he is heard issuing a stern warning: “If people are being threatened repeatedly, we will take strict action. Don’t complain later.”
Another clip shows him cautioning alleged intimidators, saying they would be “taken care of” if complaints persisted, underlining a zero-tolerance approach toward electoral malpractice.
Warning to TMC Candidate Jahangir Khan
The action gained further traction as it involved Jahangir Khan, a candidate of the All India Trinamool Congress from Falta.
Sharma reportedly acted on complaints that Khan’s associates were threatening voters. When he reached the area, locals were initially hesitant to even disclose Khan’s residence, reflecting the alleged atmosphere of fear.
Khan, considered close to Abhishek Banerjee—nephew of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee—has previously faced allegations, including involvement in stone-pelting on the convoy of former BJP national president JP Nadda.
Security Deployment Row Adds Fuel
The situation escalated further when Sharma found 14 police personnel deployed at Khan’s residence, despite provisions for only 10 personnel under Y-category security.
Taking a strict stance, Sharma issued a notice to the local Superintendent of Police, seeking an explanation for the excess deployment, citing violation of norms.
Election Commission’s Tight Vigil
The Election Commission has appointed 11 police observers for the second phase of polling, but Sharma’s proactive approach has made him the most talked-about among them.
Polling for 152 seats in the first phase on April 23 was largely peaceful, while the second phase on April 29 will cover 142 seats, including key constituencies in Kolkata. Given the sensitivity, heightened monitoring has been put in place.
From Dentist to ‘Encounter Specialist’
Born on October 26, 1985, in Ludhiana, Punjab, Ajay Pal Sharma’s journey to the Indian Police Service is unconventional. Before joining the IPS in 2011, he was a qualified dental surgeon, holding a BDS degree from Government Medical College, Patiala.
Over the years, he has built a reputation as a tough officer, particularly in Uttar Pradesh, where he has handled several high-risk assignments.
- Currently serves as Additional Commissioner of Police in Prayagraj
- Previously served as SP/SSP in districts like Shamli, Rampur, Noida (Gautam Budh Nagar), Hathras, and Jaunpur
- Conducted over 500 encounters in his career, with 15 criminals killed and many others arrested
- Recorded 136 encounters in just 22 months during his tenure in Jaunpur
His policing style, aligned with the “crime-free Uttar Pradesh” approach under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, earned him the moniker of “Singham” and “Encounter Expert.”
Key Roles and Assignments
Sharma has held several significant positions over his career:
- ASP during the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj (2013)
- SP Personnel and head of UP-112 at Police Headquarters
- Nodal Officer for Maha Kumbh Mela 2025
- Promoted to DIG rank in January 2025
His administrative and operational experience has made him a go-to officer for sensitive assignments.
Career Not Without Controversy
Despite his achievements, Sharma’s career has also seen its share of controversies.
In 2020, a woman named Deepti Sharma alleged that he had married her in 2016 and later backed out. An FIR was registered at Hazratganj police station in Lucknow, and an SIT probe was initiated. He was later given a clean chit.
Additionally, opposition parties, including the Samajwadi Party, have in the past questioned certain police encounters under his watch, alleging them to be “fake,” including incidents in Shamli and Rampur.
He has also faced scrutiny over allegations of corruption and operational excesses during his tenure.
Why His Bengal Entry Matters
Sharma’s deployment in West Bengal is significant due to his reputation for decisive action. His strong warning against voter intimidation and swift on-ground intervention have sent a clear message about the Election Commission’s intent to ensure free and fair polling.
However, his assertive style has also intensified political tensions in an already charged electoral environment.
A High-Stakes Election Ahead
With the second phase of voting imminent, all eyes are now on how the situation unfolds in sensitive districts like South 24 Parganas.
As the political temperature rises, IPS Ajay Pal Sharma’s role as an observer could prove crucial in shaping the narrative around law enforcement, electoral fairness, and administrative neutrality in one of India’s most closely watched state elections.
Read also: West Bengal DGP Siddh Nath Gupta Gets 6-Month Extension Amid Elections | Know His Profile
