“Agar badmashi kari…”: ‘encounter specialist’ on poll duty warns All India Trinamool Congress candidate

West Bengal’s poll campaign turned high-voltage after an IPS officer on election duty issued a sharp warning to a All India Trinamool Congress candidate over alleged voter intimidation, even as questions were raised about his security cover.

Ajay Pal Sharma, known for his “encounter specialist” tag, is currently deployed as a police observer in the state. He reached the Falta constituency following complaints that TMC candidate Jehangir Khan was allegedly threatening voters.

Khan was not present when Sharma arrived, and locals — along with the police — initially did not reveal his residence. After a search, Sharma’s team traced the house and confronted family members.

Stern warning on intimidation

Addressing those present, Sharma issued a blunt message: any attempt to threaten voters would invite strict action. He said repeated complaints had been received and warned that authorities would act firmly if such behaviour continued.

Security cover questioned

During the visit, Sharma found 14 personnel from the West Bengal Police deployed at the residence. However, the local superintendent informed him that Khan had Y-category security with only 10 personnel sanctioned. Sharma flagged the discrepancy and sought an explanation.

Political slugfest erupts

The episode quickly triggered a war of words between parties.
Amit Malviya backed the officer, saying the warning signalled an end to intimidation in elections.

The TMC, however, hit back, alleging Sharma had been “parachuted” in by the Election Commission of India and questioning his neutrality. The party cited past controversies linked to the officer and warned that any conduct unbecoming of a neutral observer would have consequences, remarking that “Bengal is no Uttar Pradesh.”

Meanwhile, Akhilesh Yadav accused the Bharatiya Janata Party of deploying “tested agents” in the guise of observers and backed Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

Tensions rise ahead of polls

The incident has added to the charged atmosphere in West Bengal, with authorities under pressure to ensure free and fair elections. Officials say any complaints of voter intimidation or attempts to influence the process will be dealt with strictly as campaigning intensifies.