KOLKATA: A political row has erupted in West Bengal over the conduct of a Police Observer hailing from Uttar Pradesh. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has officially questioned the "jurisdiction" and authority of the observer following the release of a video where he is purportedly seen issuing warnings.
The ruling party has raised several allegations against the officer stationed in Diamond Harbour. In response, the Election Commission has stated that any formal complaints received regarding the matter will be thoroughly investigated.
Key Developments
'Singham' from Uttar Pradesh in Bengal:
A video has surfaced showing the UP police officer issuing stern warnings in front of a TMC candidate’s residence. The bold stance has led to him being dubbed the "Singham" of UP by some, while drawing sharp criticism from the ruling party for overstepping his bounds during the election period.
Service Extension for DGP Siddhanath Gupta:
In a significant move just ahead of the second phase of polling, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has extended the service tenure of the state's Director General of Police (DGP), Siddhanath Gupta, by six months. The official letter regarding this extension reached Nabanna (the State Secretariat) recently.
The Legal Dispute
The core of the controversy lies in the Election Commission’s ‘Handbook’. TMC leadership argues that the Observer’s primary role is to monitor and report, rather than taking direct, confrontational action that could influence the electoral atmosphere. The Commission is now under pressure to clarify the specific limits of an Observer's executive powers while on duty.
