In a major political development in West Bengal, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is set to form its first government in the state following a historic victory in the Assembly elections. In a significant decision, the party leadership has finalised Suvendu Adhikari as the Chief Minister-designate, marking a decisive shift in the state’s political landscape.
The announcement was made during the BJP Legislative Party meeting held today, where Suvendu Adhikari’s name was officially proposed and unanimously approved as the leader of the legislative party. Union Home Minister Amit Shah is reported to have formally endorsed the decision and congratulated him on his selection as the next Chief Minister of West Bengal.
#WATCH | Kolkata | Suvendu Adhikari elected as the Leader of West Bengal BJP Legislative Party, set to be the new CM of the state. pic.twitter.com/DCm6zezL4U
— ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2026
Suvendu Adhikari, a former senior leader of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), had held key ministerial positions in the state cabinet before parting ways with the party. His political career saw a dramatic turnaround after he joined the BJP, emerging as one of its most influential leaders in West Bengal. Over the years, he consolidated his position through significant electoral victories and organisational strength within the party.
His political stature further strengthened after he defeated former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in consecutive elections, including a high-profile contest from Nandigram in 2021 and another electoral victory in 2026. These wins are widely seen as a turning point in Bengal politics, significantly boosting BJP’s presence in the state.
With this mandate, the BJP is poised to form its first government in West Bengal after decades of rule by the Left Front and the Trinamool Congress. Suvendu Adhikari is expected to take oath as Chief Minister on Saturday, signalling the beginning of a new political era in the state under BJP leadership.