IPS officer Ajay Pal Sharma, popularly known as the ‘Singham’ of Uttar Pradesh, has gone viral on the internet after being appointed as a police observer in the West Bengal Assembly elections.
A seven-year-old TEDx talk by Sharma has resurfaced on social media, where he speaks about life philosophy and his motivation to join the civil services.
In the video, he quotes a Sanskrit line from Rigveda and says, “We should never block noble thoughts, regardless of its source—it may come from a colleague, a subordinate, or a senior. This should be the basic philosophy. Openness must be maintained, because much in life remains unknown to us.”
He adds, “I chose the civil services because our systems need reform. Having understood what injustice feels like, I strive to ensure justice.”
Ahead of the second and final phase of polling on April 29, Sharma launched a crackdown in South 24 Parganas to ensure free and fair elections in the politically sensitive region.
Acting on allegations of voter intimidation, Sharma visited the residence of Trinamool Congress (TMC) candidate Jahangir Khan from Falta.
The candidate was not present at the time, but Sharma and his team traced the residence despite initial reluctance from locals and regional police.
Taken aback by the Y-category security cover provided to Khan, Sharma issued a stern warning to his family members.
“If we continue to receive reports of his associates intimidating voters, we will take appropriate action. He should not regret his actions later,” Sharma is heard saying in a viral video.
Ajay Pal Sharma, the encounter specialist and Singham of UP police, is deployed as police observer of South 24 Parganas. He just read the riot act to Bhaipo’s henchman Jehangir Khan’s family members.
— BJP West Bengal (@BJP4Bengal) April 27, 2026
Nobody can stop this election from being the most free and fair election in 50… pic.twitter.com/p3WOLLXL6d
Ajay Pal Sharma is a senior IPS officer of the Uttar Pradesh cadre, known for his tough policing style and reputation as an “encounter specialist.”
Sharma rose to prominence in Uttar Pradesh for his aggressive policing and crackdowns on organised crime.
His style has earned him the nickname “Singham,” inspired by the popular Bollywood cop archetype.
He has also taken action against corrupt officials and criminal networks during his tenure.