Suvendu Adhikari was sworn in as the first BJP chief minister of West Bengal on Saturday, May 9, 2026 [1].
This transition marks a historic shift in the state's political landscape, as the BJP secures its first-ever mandate to lead the West Bengal government. The change in leadership follows the 2026 state elections, where the party gained enough seats to form the administration [2].
The ceremony took place at the Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata [2]. Governor R.N. Ravi administered the oath of office to Adhikari, who serves as the BJP legislature party leader [1, 2].
Adhikari did not take the oath alone. Five other members of the legislative assembly were also sworn in as ministers during the event [1]. These appointments establish the core of the new state cabinet as the party begins its tenure.
The event was held under significant public attention at the Brigade Parade Ground, a site often used for major political gatherings in the city [2]. The swearing-in process concludes the formal transition of power following the recent electoral results [2].
“Suvendu Adhikari was sworn in as the first BJP chief minister of West Bengal”
The appointment of Suvendu Adhikari as chief minister represents the first time the Bharatiya Janata Party has held the executive office in West Bengal. This shift ends a long period of political dominance by other parties in the state and signals a realignment of power in one of India's most populous regions.
