Election Commission of India acts after row over ‘UP Singham’ remarks targeting All India Trinamool Congress candidate

The Election Commission of India on Tuesday transferred a key poll official in West Bengal’s South 24 Parganas after a political row escalated in Falta over remarks by Special Police Observer Ajay Pal Sharma, triggering protests by the ruling All India Trinamool Congress (TMC).

The controversy began after Sharma, a Uttar Pradesh-cadre IPS officer deployed as an election observer, warned of “appropriate treatment” for anyone attempting to disrupt polling. The TMC accused him of overstepping his mandate and “intimidating” party workers.

Amid the escalating tensions, Joint BDO of Falta Sourav Hazra — who was also serving as Assistant Returning Officer — was transferred to Purulia with immediate effect. He has been replaced by Ramya Bhattacharya, according to an official order, with the Commission seeking prompt compliance.

‘Singham’ remark sparks row

The flashpoint came after a viral video showed Sharma visiting the residence of TMC candidate Jahangir Khan late on Monday.

In the clip, Sharma warned against voter intimidation, saying strict action would follow any complaints. Known as “Singham,” the officer’s remarks drew a sharp retort from Khan: “If he’s ‘Singham’, I am ‘Pushpa’.”

Khan accused the officer of attempting to pressure him and his supporters, calling the visit “unacceptable in a democratic system.”

Protests and allegations

Following the exchange, TMC supporters staged protests in Falta, alleging intimidation as Sharma’s convoy moved through the area with central forces.

The controversy deepened after a woman filed a complaint at the local police station, alleging misconduct by personnel from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).

In her complaint, she alleged that personnel entered her home late on April 27 without valid documents, attempted to detain her husband, and assaulted her. She also accused them of indecent behaviour and claimed the family was pressured to vote for the Bharatiya Janata Party, along with threats of consequences.

She has sought registration of an FIR and a detailed probe, including into the role of the observer.

Tensions ahead of polling

Falta, part of the Diamond Harbour Lok Sabha constituency, has emerged as a high-voltage battleground as polling approaches.

With multiple observers deployed by the Election Commission, the controversy has sharpened focus on poll conduct and security arrangements in the run-up to voting.