Jan Suraaj founder Prashant Kishor has submitted a complaint against the senior police officer to the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), alleging misuse of police powers before polling. Kishor has also demanded action against the SSP, while the Election Office has assured him that the matter will be examined according to rules.

Who is IPS Kartikeya Sharma?

IPS Kartikeya Sharma is a 2014-batch Bihar cadre IPS officer known for his technology-driven policing and quick decision-making. Born on December 4, 1988, in Ranchi, Sharma studied at two of India's top institutions IIT Kharagpur and IIM Ahmedabad. After completing engineering and management studies, he left a corporate career to prepare for the UPSC Civil Services Examination and joined the Indian Police Service.

Since joining the Bihar cadre, he has served in districts including Purnia, Gaya and Sheikhpura, where he earned a reputation for effective policing and rapid action against crime.

Prashant Kishor's Complaint Against Patna SSP

The political row began after Patna Police detained around 20 Jan Suraaj leaders and workers on the eve of the Bankipur bypoll, citing the need to maintain law and order. Prashant Kishor spent several hours at a police station seeking the release of some workers and was also involved in a heated exchange with police personnel.

On Saturday, Kishor met the Chief Electoral Officer and submitted a formal complaint against IPS Kartikeya Sharma. He demanded strict action, claiming the police action affected the democratic process before voting. Kishor also said that if necessary, he would approach the Election Commission of India in New Delhi.

Known for Action-Oriented Policing in Bihar

Kartikeya Sharma is widely recognised as an action-oriented officer. During his tenure in Sheikhpura, he solved the Barbigha gold robbery case involving nearly Rs 2 crore worth of gold within 24 hours. He also led the quick arrest of an accused in the Patna Khemka murder case, strengthening his image as a result-oriented police officer.

When he was transferred from Purnia to Patna in June 2025, the city was witnessing a rise in crime. After taking charge, Sharma announced that every citizen should feel safe stepping out at night and directed police teams to increase patrolling and improve policing standards.

Technology-Driven Leadership and Next Steps

As Patna SSP, Sharma introduced stricter monitoring of police stations, expanded night patrols and personally visited major crime scenes. He also strengthened digital surveillance, CCTV monitoring and cyber investigation units to improve crime detection.

His IIT-IIM background is often credited for his analytical approach to policing. Officials describe him as someone who relies on data, risk assessment and technology before making operational decisions.

Meanwhile, the focus has now shifted to the Election Office's response to Prashant Kishor's complaint. If the allegations are found to have merit, the matter could lead to further action during the sensitive Bankipur bypoll process, making the role of the Patna SSP a key political and administrative issue.