Viral Warning During Phase 2 Polling
With Phase 2 of the West Bengal Legislative Assembly elections underway, attention has turned to dentist-turned-IPS officer Ajay Pal Sharma, whose video issuing a stern warning to Trinamool Congress (TMC) candidate Jahangir Khan from Falta went viral on social media. The incident followed allegations that Khan’s supporters were threatening voters in the constituency.
The Viral Confrontation
Sharma, a 2011-batch IPS officer, has been posted as a Special Police Observer for the West Bengal elections by the Election Commission of India. He became the centre of a political flashpoint between the All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) after visiting Falta in South 24 Parganas district.
The seat falls under the Diamond Harbour constituency represented by Abhishek Banerjee, nephew of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and a key TMC stronghold.
Sharma reportedly visited the area following complaints of voter intimidation, where Khan’s supporters were allegedly collecting voter ID cards. In a viral video, Sharma can be heard issuing a warning: “Kayde se ilaaj kiya jayega” (you will be dealt with strictly as per the law).
Khan responded by invoking a pop culture reference, saying, “This is Bengal; if he is ‘Singham’, I am ‘Pushpa’. No amount of threat or coercion by BJP-appointed police officials from Uttar Pradesh will be allowed in Falta.”
Who Is Ajay Pal Sharma?
Ajay Pal Sharma is a 2011-batch IPS officer of the Uttar Pradesh cadre, widely known by the monikers “encounter specialist” and “Singham” for his action-oriented policing style.
He has been associated with approximately 500 police encounters, including 136 encounters in just 22 months. He currently serves as Deputy Inspector General (DIG) and is posted in Prayagraj.
Political Clash Between TMC and BJP
The TMC has accused the Election Commission of enabling intimidation of its workers and alleged that Sharma has overstepped his role. TMC MP Mahua Moitra described Sharma as “highly partisan and acting contrary to the role prescribed to him.”
The BJP, including leader Amit Malviya, strongly rejected the allegations, asserting that the elections would be conducted fairly. BJP leaders emphasised the need for secure voting, especially after Phase 1 polling saw incidents of violence.
Phase 2 Polling and Election Timeline
Phase 2 polling is being held on April 29 as part of the West Bengal Legislative Assembly elections. The counting of votes and declaration of results are scheduled for May 4.
