West Bengal Deployment Row TMC, Akhilesh Yadav accuse BJP of sending ‘agents’ to sway votes
The Trinamool Congress and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav have accused the BJP of trying to influence the election by deploying “agents” to intimidate voters. Meanwhile, the BJP and the Election Commission say they have sent Sharma as an “observer” to ensure free and fair voting.
“West Bengal: TMC, Akhilesh Accuse BJP Over Deployment Row”
The Trinamool Congress alleged that the Election Commission deployed Ajay Pal Sharma—an “encounter specialist” linked to Yogi Adityanath—as a police observer in South 24 Parganas, and claimed his record includes misuse of authority and personal vendettas. The party added that cases have been registered against him for criminal breach of trust, conspiracy, and evidence tampering.
Akhilesh Yadav also questioned Sharma’s deployment, citing his alleged “dark record” and “thok-do attitude,” and warned that authorities would later probe the activities of those he described as BJP “agents” and take strict action.Mahua Moitra also condemned the deployment and shared a video of Ajay Pal Sharma on X, in which he warned that any wrongdoing would face strict action. Reacting to the clip, she cautioned him, saying, “Herogiri thoda samhaal ke kijiye.”
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“West Bengal: BJP Defends IPS Officer Amid Row”
The BJP said on X that it deployed Ajay Pal Sharma as police observer in South 24 Parganas. It described him as an “encounter specialist” and the “Singham” of UP Police. According to the party, he warned people linked to a TMC aide. The BJP added that no one will disrupt what it called a “free and fair” election. It also warned of strict action against anyone acting “oversmart.”
Meanwhile, Election Commission of India observer Ajay Pal Sharma sparked controversy after a viral video surfaced. The clip showed him warning the family of TMC candidate Jahangir Khan during a Monday raid with CAPF personnel. In the video, he referred to alleged threats to voters and warned of strict action.
Ahead of polling, Khan left his residence about 36 hours earlier. He said he will file an FIR and move court. EC sources said authorities acted on complaints alleging voter intimidation. CEO Manoj Agarwal said officials will act against any wrongdoing. He added that observers can ensure fair polls. Any complaints against officers, he said, will be reviewed by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
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