Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari (BJP) expanded his cabinet on Monday, June 1, 2026, swearing in 35 MLAs as ministers [1].
This expansion arrives three weeks after the BJP formed its first-ever government in West Bengal. The move is intended to bolster the state government's administrative setup as it begins its tenure [1], [2].
Governor R. N. Ravi administered the oath to the new ministers during a ceremony scheduled for 11 a.m. [4]. While some reports identified the venue as Nabanna, other sources said the event took place at Lok Bhavan in Kolkata [1], [2].
The addition of 35 ministers brings the total strength of the Council of Ministers to 41 members [2]. This figure remains below the legal ceiling of 44 ministers allowed for a 294-member assembly [2].
The rapid expansion of the cabinet follows a historic shift in the state's political landscape. By filling these roles, Adhikari said he aims to distribute portfolios and ensure a wider representation of the party within the executive branch [1], [3].
The ceremony marks a critical transition point for the new administration as it moves from the initial appointment of a small core team to a full operational cabinet [3].
“35 MLAs were sworn in as ministers, raising the Council of Ministers to 41 members”
The swift expansion of the cabinet suggests that the BJP administration is prioritizing rapid institutional control and political consolidation. By utilizing nearly the full legal quota of ministers, Adhikari is likely attempting to balance internal party factions and ensure comprehensive oversight across various state departments during the first few weeks of this unprecedented government.
