Governor R.N. Ravi swore in 35 BJP MLAs as ministers on Monday at Lok Bhavan in Kolkata [1], [4].
This expansion solidifies the administration of Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari following the BJP's victory in the 294-member West Bengal Assembly. By filling these roles, the government aims to establish a full operational structure to execute its legislative agenda.
The ceremony, held at Lok Bhavan, included the swearing-in of several ministers of state with independent charge [1], [2]. Among the 35 new inductees are Deepak Barman, Arjun Singh, Shankar Ghosg, Gauri Shankar Ghosh, Tapas Roy, Manoj Kumar Oraon, Swapan Dasgupta, Rajesh Mahata, Indranil Khan, and Malati Rava Roy [1], [2].
The expansion brings the total strength of the Council of Ministers to 41 [5]. This strategic increase in personnel allows the chief minister to distribute departmental responsibilities across a wider array of party representatives.
Gender representation was a notable component of the selection process. The expanded cabinet includes seven women ministers, including Malati Rava Roy and Kalita Maji [3].
Chief Minister Adhikari led the government during the proceedings, which some reports said were associated with the nearby Nabanna complex [1], [2]. The move follows the initial formation of the government after the recent assembly elections.
“Governor R.N. Ravi swore in 35 BJP MLAs as ministers on Monday”
The rapid expansion of the West Bengal cabinet to 41 members suggests a strategy by Suvendu Adhikari to consolidate power and ensure regional representation across the state. By appointing 35 MLAs, the BJP is likely attempting to balance internal party dynamics and reward loyalty following their assembly victory, while the inclusion of seven women indicates a push for a more inclusive administrative image.
