Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari (BJP) oversaw the swearing-in of 35 new ministers on Saturday at Lok Bhavan in Kolkata [1], [4].
This expansion follows the BJP's first-ever victory in West Bengal. By inducting a large number of legislators into the Council of Ministers, the government aims to strengthen its administrative grip and consolidate power across the state [4], [5].
Governor R N Ravi administered the oath of office to the incoming ministers. The ceremony marks a significant transition in the state's governance, as the BJP seeks to implement its policy agenda following the resignation of the previous TMC government [3].
According to reports, 35 BJP MLAs were inducted as ministers during the event [4]. This move significantly increases the size of the executive branch. While some reports indicate the total strength of the Council of Ministers after expansion is 41 [1], other sources place the total at 40 [5].
Adhikari arrived at Lok Bhavan to lead the proceedings, which were described as one of the largest displays of power in the region's recent history [5]. The expansion is intended to ensure a broad representation of the party's legislative strength in the cabinet.
"We will rebuild Bengal," Adhikari said [3].
Though most reports place the ceremony at Lok Bhavan [2], [3], some live updates previously suggested the event occurred at Nabanna [2]. The administration's focus now shifts toward the immediate operationalization of these new portfolios to address state governance.
“We will rebuild Bengal.”
The rapid expansion of the West Bengal cabinet to approximately 40 members signals the BJP's intent to reward its legislative base and establish a dominant administrative presence. By filling the Council of Ministers to near-capacity, Adhikari is attempting to stabilize his government's control over the state machinery following a historic shift in political power from the Trinamool Congress.
