Controversy flared up around Ajaypal Sharma, a police observer appointed by the Election Commission. The Trinamool Congress has raised questions about his authority.
A video has gone viral in which he is seen speaking a warning to locals. The video is said to be from near Trinamool candidate Jahangir Khan’s residence. Sharma also addresses the family members of the candidate. Khan is contesting from Falta constituency in South 24 Parganas.
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The Trinamool alleges that Sharma intimidated local residents and carried out night patrols. The ruling party even accuses him of inappropriate behavior towards women.
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“Ajay Pal Sharma, an encounter specialist and Singham of the UP police, is deployed as a police observer in South 24 Parganas. He has just read riots to the family members of Bhaipo’s follower Jehangir Khan,” wrote Abhishek Banerje, referring to CM Mamata Banerjee’s Bhaipo (nephew).
“No one can stop this election from being the freest and fairest in 50 years, and anyone who dares to overact will be taught a lesson,” he added.
In the video, Sharma says, “All the people here should understand this clearly: if someone indulges in bad behavior, they will be dealt with strictly according to the rules.”
“If there is information from anywhere that someone has tried to cause trouble or harass others, we take it seriously and deal with them accordingly,” he says further.
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“Jahangir’s family members are also present here. Inform him properly that there are reports that his people are threatening. If so, we will take strong action,” adds Sharma.
“Phir baad me rona pachhtana mat (Don’t cry and complain later),” he concludes.
What is a police observer?
What exactly is the role of a police observer? The Electoral Commission’s “Handbook for Observers” (August 2024) describes their duties. Observers are expected to ensure free and fair elections at the local level.
They act as the “eyes and ears” of the Commission, not as its spokesperson. Their role is to monitor, report and ensure that election laws and guidelines are strictly and impartially followed.
Former police observers told Anandabazar Patrik that such conduct was against protocol. Observers are not to directly communicate with the public or issue instructions.
The handbook clearly states that observers must maintain confidentiality. Even after the election, they are not allowed to share information with the media or publicly discuss their observations.
Their task is to report directly to the electoral commission. However, they can coordinate with local officials for necessary repairs.
Reaction on social networks
Several social media users found Ajaypal Sharma’s actions inappropriate.
“This is not the language of an IPS officer. This is the language spoken by Ajay Pal (IPS) from Prayagraj because he has the blessings of the BJP party,” the UP-based advocate wrote.
“This guy indulges in political violence… Just recently in UP he was sidelined after action was taken against Bajrang Dal people,” claimed another user.
Another user wrote: “Under ECI guidelines, police observers do not have the executive power to issue any orders or warnings themselves… This officer is overstepping the bounds of his own role as an observer.”
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“If he has it in him, why not send him to Manipur?” another user asked.
One user wondered: “Encounter specialist? Really? When was that legalized in this country?”
“This is open hooliganism by the ECI in sending a notorious gangster in the garb of a Police Observer, Gyanesh Kumar, who is playing with fire,” read another.
Other users appreciate Ajaypal Sharma’s tough tactics.
“TMC rascals, mend yourselves. A brave policeman issues a warning,” wrote one.
“Much demanded in WB….Even after elections Ajit Doval Sir should visit these border areas. At present TMC style is a big threat to national security and should be dealt with much more forcefully,” commented another user.
“His roar will send chills down their spines,” said another.
