Source : INDIA TODAY NEWS
West Bengal’s election campaign saw high drama after an IPS officer on poll duty issued a blunt warning to a TMC candidate over alleged voter intimidation, even as questions emerged over his security cover.
Ajay Pal Sharma, known as an encounter specialist, is currently deployed as a police observer in the state for election duty.
Sharma reached the area following complaints from residents that Jehangir Khan of the All India Trinamool Congress was allegedly threatening voters in the Falta constituency.
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When Sharma arrived, Khan was not present. Locals and even the local police did not initially disclose the location of his residence.
During a search, Sharma and his team traced the house and reached the spot.
‘AGAR BADMASHI KARI’
Addressing Khan’s relatives at the residence, Sharma issued a stern warning.
“Make sure he understands, if there are complaints of people being threatened, we will deal with it properly. If anyone indulges in wrongdoing or tries to harass voters, we will take strict action,” he said.
“Tell Jehangir that repeated complaints are coming that his people are threatening others. If that continues, we will take it up seriously. There should be no complaints later,” he added.
SECURITY COVER UNDER QUESTION
At the residence, Sharma found 14 West Bengal Police personnel deployed.
When he sought details from the local Superintendent of Police, he was informed that Khan had been given Y-category security with 10 personnel assigned.
Sharma pointed out the discrepancy and issued a notice seeking an explanation for the additional deployment.
POLITICAL WAR OF WORDS
The development triggered sharp reactions.
Amit Malviya said Sharma had “set the tone” and “firmly read the riot act” to the family members of a close aide of Abhishek Banerjee.
“The message is loud and clear: the era of intimidation and impunity is over. Law and order will prevail,” he said.
However, the All India Trinamool Congress hit back, questioning Sharma’s appointment and referring to past allegations against him, saying such a choice raises concerns over neutrality in the election process.
POLL TENSIONS RISE
The incident has added to the already tense political atmosphere in West Bengal, with authorities under pressure to ensure a free and fair election.
Officials have indicated that any complaint of intimidation or attempts to influence voters will be acted upon strictly as the campaign intensifies.
– Ends
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SOURCE :- TIMES OF INDIA
