Calcutta High Court Defers Action in IPS Ajay Pal Sharma MCC Case Amid Bengal Polls 2026
In a development that highlights the sensitive balance between judicial oversight and electoral processes, the Calcutta High Court has declined to grant immediate relief in a petition filed against IPS officer Ajay Pal Sharma, who is currently serving as a Police Observer for the West Bengal Assembly Elections 2026. The court stated that it would not intervene in the matter until April 29, effectively allowing the ongoing election process to proceed without disruption at this critical stage.
The petition, reportedly supported by the All India Trinamool Congress, alleges that Sharma violated the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) during his deployment. However, the court chose to exercise restraint, observing that any immediate judicial intervention during active polling phases could potentially interfere with the smooth conduct of elections.
The controversy surrounding Sharma stems from a viral video recorded in the Falta Assembly constituency in South 24 Parganas district. In the footage, the IPS officer is seen outside the residence of TMC candidate Jahangir Khan, issuing a stern warning against alleged voter intimidation. He is heard cautioning that strict action would be taken if any attempts were made to influence voters, signaling a firm stance on maintaining electoral integrity.
The video quickly gained traction on social media and was widely circulated, including being shared by the Bharatiya Janata Party. This further intensified the political narrative around the incident, with opposing parties interpreting the officer’s actions through sharply different lenses.
Tensions escalated further when a search operation was conducted in the Falta constituency by the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) under Sharma’s supervision. The कार्रवाई triggered protests by TMC supporters, who gathered outside the candidate’s office and raised slogans against the central forces. Senior party leaders and state ministers accused the officer of bias and misuse of authority, alleging that his actions favored the BJP.
Reacting strongly, candidate Jahangir Khan publicly criticized Sharma, asserting that political intimidation would not be tolerated.
Meanwhile, the controversy extended beyond West Bengal, drawing reactions from national leaders, including Akhilesh Yadav, who accused the officer of acting with political bias and warned of consequences in the future.
The role of the Election Commission of India has also come under scrutiny. The Commission had appointed Sharma as a police observer to ensure free and fair elections in sensitive constituencies. With the second phase of polling scheduled for April 29, multiple observers have been deployed across the state to maintain law and order and prevent electoral malpractices.
For now, the High Court’s decision to defer intervention places the immediate focus on the polling process. The मामला is expected to be taken up after April 29, when the court may examine the allegations in greater detail.
The episode underscores the intense political environment surrounding the Bengal elections and raises broader questions about the role and accountability of law enforcement officials during electoral processes.
