Kolkata: A major political shift unfolded in West Bengal on Saturday as Suvendu Adhikari was sworn in as the state’s first Chief Minister from the Bharatiya Janata Party, marking the beginning of a new political chapter after the BJP’s decisive Assembly election victory.
Governor RN Ravi administered the oath of office and secrecy to Adhikari during a grand ceremony at Kolkata’s Brigade Parade Grounds, attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, senior Union ministers, chief ministers from NDA-governed states and several prominent leaders from across the country.
The BJP secured a commanding victory in the 294-member Assembly by winning 207 seats, bringing an end to the Trinamool Congress’ 15-year rule in the state.
The victory is being viewed as a historic breakthrough for the saffron party in eastern India, where it had long sought to establish a stable political foothold.
Addressing supporters ahead of the swearing-in, Adhikari described the moment as the beginning of a “new Bengal,” promising an era of development, stability and growth under what he called a “double-engine government.”
He said the people of West Bengal had voted for change and expressed confidence that the new administration would work to restore peace, attract investment and accelerate infrastructure development.
The oath-taking event witnessed the presence of top BJP leaders, industrialists, cultural figures and religious representatives, with the party projecting it as a landmark moment in the state’s political journey.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Adhikari and described the BJP’s win as a reflection of the people’s trust in governance focused on progress and transparency.
The BJP’s rise to power in Bengal is being seen as one of the party’s most significant electoral achievements, especially after years of intense political contest with the Trinamool Congress.
Political observers say the transition will now test the BJP’s ability to deliver on promises related to employment, law and order, industrial expansion and welfare reforms.
With the swearing-in now complete, attention will shift to cabinet formation and the rollout of the new government’s policy priorities as Bengal enters a fresh phase under BJP leadership.
