Nandigram police station officer in-charge replaced day before bypoll
The Election Commission has replaced the officer-in-charge of the Nandigram police station just one day before the scheduled bypoll. The decision follows complaints from opposition parties regarding the incumbent's alleged bias toward the ruling party.
Why it matters
Ensuring neutral law enforcement during elections is critical for maintaining the integrity of the democratic process in sensitive constituencies.
The Election Commission on Monday (October 5, 2026) replaced the officer-in-charge of Nandigram police station, a day before the bypoll to the Assembly Constituency in West Bengal's Purba Medinipur district, a senior official said.
Debashis Sarkar was appointed in place of incumbent Ajay Kumar Mishra, he said.
The replacement came after Opposition parties complained to the Election Commission, alleging that Mishra was close to the ruling party. Mishra had been posted as the IC of Nandigram police station ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.
Mr. Sarkar currently serves as the traffic inspector in Tamluk and also as the IC of the Cyber Crime police station. When contacted, Mr. Sarkar said he had just learnt about the change and was yet to receive the formal order.
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