The Kolkata Police has suspended a constable after a video posted on social media drew attention during the ongoing 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections.
Constable suspended after video surfaces
Constable Ramkrishna Kayal of the 1st Battalion, Kolkata Armed Police was placed under suspension on April 27. The action came after he shared a 23-minute video on Facebook a day earlier, which quickly circulated online.
Also Read | What’s the weather forecast for Kolkata on polling day? Here's what to expect
In a statement posted on X, Kolkata Police said, "One police personnel of Kolkata Police has been placed under suspension pending enquiry into his conduct on social media.
All police personnel have been directed to strictly refrain from posting, sharing, or endorsing any content on social media that may violate service conduct rules or the Model Code of Conduct.
They have also been briefed to maintain complete impartiality during the election process and ensure free, fair, and peaceful elections."
One police personnel of Kolkata Police has been placed under suspension pending enquiry into his conduct on social media.
— Kolkata Police (@KolkataPolice) April 27, 2026
All police personnel have been directed to strictly refrain from posting, sharing, or endorsing any content on social media that may violate service conduct…
Content of the video
In the video, Kayal appeared in uniform and identified himself while making remarks about the Trinamool Congress government led by Mamata Banerjee. He accused the administration of enabling “Islamisation” within the police force and made statements regarding religious conversions.
He also urged voters participating in the second phase of polling to cast their votes in a manner that would bring down the current government.
This suspended Kolkata Armed Police employee openly criticises the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government, accuses it of enabling “Islamisation” of Bengal, and claims Muslims (with alleged support from the ruling party and intellectuals) are working to take over the state… pic.twitter.com/uOrlZGlJ7D
— Surajit Dasgupta (@surajitdasgupta) April 26, 2026
Advisory to personnel
Following the incident, the police reiterated instructions for personnel to avoid any online activity that could breach service conduct rules or the Model Code of Conduct during elections.
Officials emphasised the need for neutrality, especially during the election period, as law enforcement agencies are expected to ensure a fair and peaceful voting process.
Also Read | What replaced the Tata Nano factory? Warehouses, long shifts, and lingering questions in Singur
Authorities have stated that the suspension will remain in place pending an inquiry into the constable's conduct. Further action will depend on the findings of the investigation.