Kolkata: A fresh political controversy has erupted ahead of the crucial second phase of the West Bengal Assembly elections, following the deployment of a senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer known for his tough policing record.

The Election Commission of India has appointed Ajay Pal Sharma, a 2011-batch IPS officer from the Uttar Pradesh cadre, as police observer for South 24 Parganas district. The move, intended to strengthen security arrangements, has instead sparked a sharp political showdown between the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Ajay Pal Sharma is widely referred to as an “encounter specialist” due to his record in Uttar Pradesh, where he has been associated with several high-profile police operations against criminals. During his tenure in districts like Noida and Meerut, Sharma earned a reputation for taking a hardline stance on law and order, often leading aggressive crackdowns on organised crime.

Supporters argue that his experience makes him well-suited for election duty in sensitive regions, particularly in areas prone to electoral violence.

Sharma’s appointment comes just days before the second round of polling scheduled on April 29 in West Bengal—a phase considered critical due to the politically volatile nature of constituencies involved.

The Election Commission has maintained that his role is purely administrative and aimed at ensuring a free, fair, and peaceful voting process.

However, the move has drawn strong criticism from the Trinamool Congress, which alleged that the central authorities are attempting to influence the electoral process. TMC leaders have claimed that deploying officers with such reputations could intimidate voters.

Echoing similar concerns, Akhilesh Yadav, chief of the Samajwadi Party, accused the BJP of trying to “tilt the election in its favour” by placing “select officers” in key positions.

On the other hand, the BJP has strongly defended the decision, stating that officers like Sharma are necessary to maintain law and order and to prevent electoral malpractices.

The ongoing elections in West Bengal have already been marked by intense campaigning, allegations, and counter-allegations between rival parties. The latest controversy surrounding Ajay Pal Sharma’s deployment adds another layer of tension to an already heated political environment.

As polling day approaches, all eyes remain on South 24 Parganas and other sensitive districts, where the Election Commission faces the dual challenge of ensuring security while maintaining public confidence in the democratic process.