LUCKNOW: Uttar Pradesh IPS officer Ajay Pal Sharma has become a focal point during the ongoing West Bengal assembly elections 2026 after a video of him issuing a stern warning to a political functionary went viral on social media.
Who is IPS officer Ajay Pal Sharma?
A 2011-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, Ajay Pal Sharma is widely recognized for his aggressive and action-oriented policing style. Before joining the civil services, he practiced as a dental surgeon, leaving his medical profession to serve in the police force. Over the years, he has served in several districts of Uttar Pradesh, including Jaunpur, Shamli, Rampur, and Hathras.
Currently posted as Assistant Commissioner of Police (Law and Order) in Prayagraj, Sharma has built a reputation as a tough officer with a strong focus on law enforcement. During his tenure as Superintendent of Police in Jaunpur, he was credited with leading over 500 police encounters, including a record 136 encounters in just 22 months.
The Viral Warning Incident
The warning was reportedly directed at supporters of Trinamool Congress candidate Jahangir Khan, who has been accused by locals of intimidation. Khan, considered close to TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee, has been at the centre of controversy.
Sources said Sharma initially faced resistance while trying to trace Khan's residence, as local residents and even some police personnel were reluctant to share details, allegedly due to fear. However, his team eventually located the address after a search operation.
Irregularities in Security Deployment
Sharma also flagged irregularities in security deployment. While Khan is entitled to 'Y-category' security with 10 personnel, 14 policemen were found deployed at his residence. Following this, Sharma issued a notice to the local Superintendent of Police seeking an explanation for the excess deployment of personnel.
This incident has once again highlighted Sharma's no-nonsense approach to law enforcement, even outside his home state. His actions have drawn both praise and criticism, with supporters lauding his courage and detractors questioning his methods.
