Kolkata: The BJP has formed the government in West Bengal for the first time, ending the Trinamool Congress’ 15-year rule. Suvendu Adhikari was sworn in as the state’s Chief Minister.
In the Assembly election, the BJP won 207 seats, securing a clear majority. At a meeting of BJP MLAs, Adhikari was unanimously chosen as the legislature party leader, paving the way for him to become the party’s first Chief Minister in the state.
The swearing-in ceremony was held on May 9 at Brigade Parade Grounds in Kolkata. Governor R.N. Ravi administered the oath of office and secrecy to Adhikari.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the event, along with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, senior BJP leaders and party workers.
Adhikari, once considered a close aide of Mamata Banerjee, joined the BJP in December 2020. The report noted that he defeated Banerjee in Nandigram in 2021 and again in 2026 from Bhabanipur, a seat seen as her stronghold.
