A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking the removal of IPS officer Ajay Pal Sharma from his role as election observer for the West Bengal Assembly elections. The petition claims his appointment could affect confidence in a free and fair poll process.
Sharma, a senior IPS officer from the Uttar Pradesh cadre, was appointed by the Election Commission as a police observer during the ongoing elections in West Bengal. His role includes monitoring law and order arrangements and ensuring smooth conduct of polling.
The petition alleges that Sharma has displayed partisan behaviour in the past and that his presence in such a sensitive role may raise concerns over neutrality. It has asked the Supreme Court to direct the Election Commission to replace him with another officer.
The plea comes at a crucial stage of the West Bengal elections, where political competition remains intense and security arrangements are under close watch. The state has often witnessed legal and political disputes during election periods, making the role of observers especially important.
Ajay Pal Sharma is known as a high-profile police officer and has often attracted media attention for his tough policing style. Supporters see him as an efficient officer with a strong record, while critics say such a public image can become controversial when linked to election duty.
So far, the Election Commission has not issued a detailed public response to the petition. It remains to be seen whether the Supreme Court will agree to hear the matter urgently, given that polling is already underway.
The case adds to the growing number of legal challenges surrounding the West Bengal elections, where issues such as voter rolls, security deployment and administrative decisions have already come under scrutiny.
Also Read: PM Modi launches indoor cricket academies across northeast
