Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the swearing-in ceremony for Suvendu Adhikari as the chief minister of West Bengal in Kolkata on Saturday [1, 2].
The event marks a significant transition of power in the state. The presence of the prime minister underscores the central government's commitment to the new administration and the party's strategic goals in the region [1].
During the proceedings, Modi placed his hand on Adhikari and extended his blessings to the newly sworn-in leader [1, 2]. This gesture served as a public demonstration of support for the BJP chief minister as he begins his tenure in West Bengal [1].
Modi also shared an emotional moment with Makhanlal Sarkar, a senior BJP worker. The prime minister touched the feet of Sarkar, an act of respect toward one of the party's oldest workers in the state [1].
The ceremony took place in Kolkata, where the party aimed to showcase unity and strength during the transition [1]. The interaction between the prime minister and the veteran party member highlighted the blend of new leadership, and long-term party loyalty within the BJP's ranks [1].
“Modi placed his hand on Adhikari and extended his blessings”
The high-profile nature of the ceremony and the prime minister's personal gestures signify a strategic effort to consolidate BJP influence in West Bengal. By honoring both the new chief minister and a veteran party worker, the leadership is signaling a balance between fresh political authority and the grassroots loyalty of the party's old guard.
