Reports indicate that West Bengal has witnessed a political shift with the Bharatiya Janata Party poised to form its first government in the state this week, ending the long-standing dominance of the Trinamool Congress led by Mamata Banerjee. As attention turns to the formation of the new administration, party insiders suggest that the incoming government is likely to appoint two Deputy Chief Ministers to support Adhikari in governance.
The state has not seen a Deputy Chief Minister in the last two decades. The last such position was held during the administration of Jyoti Basu, when late Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee served in the role.
According to sources, one of the Deputy Chief Minister positions is expected to be allocated to a woman leader. BJP leader Agnimitra Paul, who secured victory from the Asansol Dakshin constituency in the recent election, is reportedly leading the race and may become the first woman Deputy Chief Minister of West Bengal. Additionally, party discussions also indicate that a representative from the tribal community may be considered for the second Deputy Chief Minister post.
A crucial meeting of all newly elected Bharatiya Janata Party legislators is scheduled for this evening to elect the leader of the legislative party, a decision that will formally determine the next Chief Minister of West Bengal. Party sources indicate that BJP West Bengal president Samik Bhattacharya is expected to propose Suvendu Adhikari’s name, which will then be confirmed through a voice vote among the elected Members of the Legislative Assembly.
The composition of the new cabinet is expected to become clearer shortly after the leadership decision, as preparations are underway for the swearing-in ceremony scheduled for tomorrow.
The oath-taking ceremony is set to take place at the historic Brigade Parade Ground in central Kolkata. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Ministers from National Democratic Alliance-ruled states, and senior leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party are expected to attend the event, which is being viewed as a significant demonstration of political strength following the party’s strong electoral performance.
The developments mark a decisive moment in West Bengal’s political landscape, signaling a potential transition of power and the beginning of a new administrative chapter in the state.
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