Suvendu Adhikari (BJP) took the oath of office as the chief minister of West Bengal on May 9, 2026 [1].

The swearing-in marks the first time the Bharatiya Janata Party has held the state's top executive position since India's independence. This shift ends years of political dominance by other parties in the region and signals a significant realignment of power within the state.

The ceremony took place at the Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata [2]. Adhikari assumed the role after the BJP secured enough seats in the 2026 West Bengal Legislative Assembly election to form the state government [3]. He was subsequently elected as the BJP legislature party leader, which prompted his appointment as chief minister [3].

Adhikari did not take the oath alone. Five other ministers were sworn in alongside him to form the new administration [4]. The group of six individuals taking the oath included Dilip Ghosh, Agnimitra Paul, Ashok Kirtania, Kshudiram Tudu, and Nisith Pramanik [5].

The transition follows a period of intense electoral competition in West Bengal. The appointment of Adhikari, a prominent figure within the party, is intended to stabilize the new government as it begins its term. The event was attended by party supporters and officials who gathered at the historic parade ground to witness the transition of power [2].

As the first BJP leader to lead the state, Adhikari faces the challenge of implementing party platforms in a region known for its complex political landscape. The formation of this government represents the culmination of the party's long-term strategy to expand its influence in eastern India [3].

“Suvendu Adhikari took the oath of office as the Chief Minister of West Bengal on May 9, 2026.”

The ascent of a BJP government in West Bengal represents a fundamental break from the state's recent political history. By securing the Chief Minister's office, the BJP has dismantled a long-standing stronghold of the Trinamool Congress, potentially altering the electoral dynamics of eastern India and strengthening the party's national footprint.