Suvendu Adhikari took the oath of office Friday as the first chief minister from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in West Bengal [1].

The installation of Adhikari marks a historic shift in the state's political landscape, ending decades of non-BJP rule following a decisive victory in the 2026 assembly elections [1].

The ceremony took place at the Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata, serving as a massive display of political power for the BJP [1]. Approximately 50,000 people witnessed the oath-taking [1]. The event drew 10,000 VIP guests [1].

High-level representation from across India attended the event. Chief ministers and deputy chief ministers from 21 states were present to support Adhikari [1].

The transition of power follows a period of intense political friction. Despite the BJP's victory and the swearing-in of a new administration, former chief minister Mamata Banerjee said, "I won't resign" [2].

While the focus remained on West Bengal, the broader political climate in India saw other significant shifts. Reports indicated that 116 legislators supported TVK Vijay's oath in Tamil Nadu [1].

“Suvendu Adhikari becomes the first BJP chief minister of West Bengal”

The appointment of Suvendu Adhikari represents a fundamental realignment of power in West Bengal, a state long characterized by strong regionalist and left-leaning governance. By securing a sweeping victory and installing a BJP chief minister, the party has successfully penetrated one of India's most challenging political bastions. The refusal of Mamata Banerjee to resign suggests a continuing period of constitutional or political tension despite the electoral outcome.