Suvendu Adhikari was sworn in as the first Bharatiya Janata Party chief minister of West Bengal on Saturday, May 9, 2026 [1].
The appointment marks a historic political shift in the state, as the BJP secures the chief minister's office for the first time. This transition signals a change in governance and political alignment for one of India's most populous regions.
The ceremony took place at the Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata [1]. Governor R.N. Ravi administered the oath of office to Adhikari, who officially assumed leadership of the state government. The event was attended by several national leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi [2].
Adhikari did not take the oath alone. Five other members of the legislative assembly were sworn in alongside him to form the new administration [1]. The gathering at the parade ground served as the official launch of the BJP-led government in West Bengal.
Local reports highlighted the scale of the event, noting the presence of high-ranking officials and party supporters. The proceedings focused on the formal transition of power and the establishment of the new cabinet. The ceremony concluded with the official recognition of the new government's authority over the state's executive functions [1].
“Suvendu Adhikari was sworn in as the first Bharatiya Janata Party chief minister of West Bengal”
The installation of a BJP chief minister in West Bengal represents a significant break from the state's long-standing political history. By establishing a foothold in the executive branch, the BJP alters the regional power balance and creates a direct alignment between the state government and the central government in New Delhi.
