Kolkata, India — May 6, 2026
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is set to form its first government in West Bengal, with the swearing-in ceremony scheduled for May 9 at 10:00 AM at Kolkata’s iconic Brigade Parade Ground, according to state party president Samik Bhattacharya.
The announcement follows the party’s decisive victory in the recently concluded state assembly elections, marking a significant political shift in the state.
Grand Swearing-In Ceremony Planned
Party officials indicated that the ceremony is expected to be a large-scale event, with the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, senior BJP leaders, National Democratic Alliance (NDA) chief ministers, and Union ministers.
Sources also suggest that around two dozen ministers are likely to take the oath alongside the new chief minister, whose name is expected to be finalized soon.
BJP Ends 15-Year Rule of TMC
The development comes after the BJP secured a commanding majority in the West Bengal Assembly elections. The All India Trinamool Congress (TMC), which had been in power for 15 years, faced a significant defeat.
According to official results declared on May 4:
- BJP won 207 seats, a sharp rise from 77 seats in the previous election
- TMC was reduced to 80 seats, down from its earlier tally of 215
The results signal a major political realignment in one of India’s key states.
Symbolic Timing on Tagore Jayanti
The BJP has chosen May 9, coinciding with the birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore (as per the Bengali calendar, 25th Baishakh), for the swearing-in ceremony.
Political observers view this timing as a symbolic move aimed at emphasizing cultural connect and countering narratives around regional identity.
Amit Shah Appointed Central Observer
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has been appointed as the central observer for the BJP legislative party meeting, where the new chief minister will be elected.
He will be joined by Mohan Charan Majhi as co-observer.
Party sources indicate that Suvendu Adhikari, who played a key role during the election campaign, is among the leading contenders for the chief minister’s post. The BJP legislature party meeting to finalize the leadership is expected soon.
High Political Stakes
The formation of a BJP government in West Bengal marks a landmark moment in the state’s political history, potentially reshaping governance priorities and party dynamics in eastern India.
With preparations underway for the swearing-in ceremony, all eyes are now on the leadership announcement and the composition of the new cabinet.
