Kolkata/IBNS: IPS officer Ajay Pal Sharma, appointed as police observer in South 24 Parganas of West Bengal, has launched a massive crackdown in the district—considered a citadel of the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC).
Crackdown in TMC Stronghold
Sharma, popularly known as an “encounter specialist”, turned the heat up on Monday, issuing a stern warning to TMC’s Falta candidate Jahangir Khan, a close associate of party national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee.
Visit Triggered by Intimidation Complaints
Acting on complaints of voter intimidation, Sharma visited Khan’s residence.
The candidate, however, was not present at the time.
Despite initial reluctance from locals and regional police to reveal the location, Sharma and his team traced the residence and reached the spot.
Stern Warning on Voter Intimidation
Taken aback by the Y-category security cover provided to Khan, Sharma warned family members that any further complaints of voter intimidation would invite strict action.
“I would ask his family to make him understand. If we continue to receive reports of his associates intimidating voters, we will take appropriate action. He should not regret his actions later,” Sharma is heard saying in a viral video.
Who is Ajay Pal Sharma?
Ajay Pal Sharma is a senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the Uttar Pradesh cadre, known for his tough policing style and reputation as an “encounter specialist.”
Sharma rose to prominence in Uttar Pradesh for his aggressive policing and crackdowns on organised crime.
His style has earned him nicknames like “Singham”, after the popular Bollywood cop character.
He has also taken action against corrupt officials and criminal networks during his tenure.