In a historic political development, Suvendu Adhikari took oath as the Chief Minister of West Bengal on May 9, 2026, becoming the first leader from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to hold the top post in the state. The swearing-in ceremony was held at Kolkata’s iconic Brigade Parade Ground, drawing a massive gathering of political leaders, party workers, and supporters.
The event was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and several senior leaders from the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), underlining the significance of the occasion. Their presence highlighted the BJP’s landmark victory in the 2026 assembly elections, which marked a dramatic shift in the state’s political landscape.
The oath of office was administered by Governor R. N. Ravi. Alongside the Chief Minister, several BJP leaders, including Dilip Ghosh and Agnimitra Paul, were also sworn in as ministers, marking the formation of the party’s first government in the state.
The BJP’s rise to power comes after a decisive electoral victory, ending over a decade-long rule by the Trinamool Congress. The result is being seen as a turning point in West Bengal politics, where regional parties had historically dominated. The new government has promised to focus on development and governance reforms under its “Sonar Bangla” vision, a key theme during the election campaign.
The ceremony also witnessed symbolic moments, including the Prime Minister seeking blessings from veteran party worker Makhanlal Sarkar, reflecting the party’s emphasis on its grassroots legacy.
Adhikari’s elevation to the Chief Minister’s post marks the culmination of his rapid political ascent, especially after his high-profile electoral victories in 2026. As he assumes office, expectations are high regarding administrative changes and policy direction in the state. The formation of a BJP-led government in West Bengal signals the beginning of a new political chapter, with both supporters and critics closely watching the developments in the coming months.
