In a moment that signifies a seismic shift in the political landscape of Eastern India, Suvendu Adhikari was sworn in as the first BJP Chief Minister of West Bengal on Saturday. The historic ceremony took place at the iconic Brigade Parade Grounds, a venue traditionally associated with the political might of the Left and the Trinamool Congress, now transformed into a sea of saffron flags and “Jai Shri Ram” chants. Governor RN Ravi administered the oath of office and secrecy to Adhikari in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and a host of senior NDA leaders.
The swearing-in marks the end of the Trinamool Congress’s 15-year rule and the beginning of what the BJP describes as a “double-engine” government—a term referring to the party’s governance at both the State and Central levels. Adhikari, who secured victories in both the Bhabanipur and Nandigram constituencies, emerged as the face of the BJP’s aggressive campaign. His unanimous election as the leader of the legislature party on Friday set the stage for this symbolic transfer of power at the Maidan.
Accompanying Adhikari into the new administration is an initial five-member cabinet designed to reflect social and regional balancing. Senior leader and former state unit chief Dilip Ghosh was the first to be inducted as a minister following the Chief Minister. He was followed by Agnimitra Paul, Ashok Kirtania, Kshudiram Tudu, and Nisith Pramanik. Representing diverse pockets from Asansol to Cooch Behar, this core team is tasked with governing a politically polarized state while the party prepares to announce further ministerial names and portfolios in the coming days.
The atmosphere at the Brigade Parade Grounds was electric, with thousands of party workers assembling since the early hours. Giant LED screens broadcasted key campaign moments as the Prime Minister arrived to a thunderous reception of ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’ slogans. The BJP’s ascent to power comes on the back of a decisive mandate, with the party securing 207 seats in the 294-member assembly. This victory is the culmination of years of grassroots expansion and a high-voltage campaign centered on the promise of a “Sonar Bangla” (Golden Bengal).
The ceremony was attended not only by political heavyweights but also by prominent industrialists, film personalities, and religious leaders, turning the constitutional event into a massive public spectacle. As Suvendu Adhikari takes the helm, the new government faces the immediate challenge of fulfilling its electoral “guarantees” and addressing the developmental aspirations of the people. For the BJP, Saturday’s oath-taking is more than just a change of guard; it is the realization of a long-held political ambition in one of India’s most strategically and culturally significant states.