Suvendu Adhikari Sworn In as West Bengal’s First BJP Chief Minister

Kolkata: Suvendu Adhikari on Saturday took oath as the Chief Minister of West Bengal, marking the first time that the Bharatiya Janata Party has formed a government in the state. The swearing-in ceremony was held at Brigade Parade Ground.

Adhikari, a senior BJP leader from Purba Medinipur, also became the first Chief Minister from outside Kolkata in more than five decades. The last such leader was Ajoy Kumar Mukherjee in 1971.

The new cabinet, though small, reflects regional and social representation. Senior BJP leaders Dilip Ghosh, Agnimitra Paul, Nisith Pramanik and Ashok Kirtania were among those inducted into the ministry.

While Ghosh’s inclusion is being seen as recognition of his role in expanding the BJP’s organisational network in the state, Agnimitra Paul’s induction highlights the party’s focus on women’s representation. The BJP also attempted to strengthen outreach among Scheduled Caste and tribal communities through the inclusion of leaders like Pramanik, Kirtania and Kshudiram Tudu.

Adhikari, who rose to prominence during the Nandigram movement against land acquisition, led the BJP’s campaign in the state elections and played a key role in the party’s historic victory.

As per constitutional provisions, the Chief Minister can further expand his ministry in the coming days.