In a historic political shift, leader of the West Bengal BJP Legislative Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, is all set to take oath as the chief minister today, May 9. His name was announced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah during the BJP legislative party meeting held on Friday.
Following the announcement, the chief minister-designate met Governor R. N. Ravi and formally staked claim to form the government in the state.
First BJP Government in Bengal
This marks the first time the BJP has formed a government in West Bengal. While staking claim to form the government, Adhikari was accompanied by Union ministers Bhupendra Yadav, Sukanta Majumdar and Santanu Thakur.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, BJP Bengal chief Samik Bhattacharya, and senior state BJP leaders including Dilip Ghosh, Locket Chatterjee and Tapas Roy were also present.
Oath Ceremony Venue
Suvendu Adhikari will take oath as chief minister at Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata. Governor R. N. Ravi will administer the oath of office.
Top NDA Leaders Expected to Attend
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, and chief ministers of NDA-ruled states are expected to attend the swearing-in ceremony.
The BJP hopes the event will symbolise a major political transition in Bengal following its landmark electoral victory.
BJP Registers Historic Victory in Bengal
The BJP secured a historic win in the West Bengal Assembly elections, winning 207 out of 264 seats. The elections were held in two phases on April 23 and 29, while counting took place on May 4.
The results dealt a major blow to the ruling TMC. Following the defeat, former chief minister Mamata Banerjee alleged vote rigging and initially refused to resign. Her allegations received support from leaders of the INDIA bloc.
Governor Dissolves Assembly
The Bengal Governor dissolved the Assembly on Thursday, paving the way for the formation of the BJP government and Mamata Banerjee’s exit from power.
Political Tension Continues
Amid the intense post-poll political developments in Bengal, Suvendu Adhikari’s close aide, Chandranath Rath, was shot dead late on Wednesday night, further escalating tensions in the state.
