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THE TIMES OF INDIA | May 08, 2026, 19:56:41 IST
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West Bengal CM Announcement Live Updates: Suvendu Adhikari arrives at Kolkata Lok Bhavan, set to stake claim to form govt
West Bengal New CM Announcement Live Updates: West Bengal is set to get its first BJP government after senior party leader Suvendu Adhikari was on Friday elected leader of the BJP legislature party, paving the way for him to take oath as chief minister.
The BJP legislature party met in Kolkata under the supervision of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who formally announced Adhikari’s name after it received the backing of newly elected MLAs and senior leaders. “I announce the name of Suvendu Adhikari elected as Leader of West Bengal BJP Legislative Party,” Shah said at the meeting.
The BJP scripted a historic victory in the assembly elections by winning 208 seats and ending the 15-year rule of the Trinamool Congress led by Mamata Banerjee. The verdict marked the BJP’s biggest-ever breakthrough in Bengal politics and completed a rapid rise that began after the 2021 elections.
Adhikari’s elevation comes after a long political rivalry with Banerjee that reshaped Bengal politics. After defeating her in Nandigram in 2021, Adhikari again emerged as the BJP’s central figure in 2026 by defeating Banerjee in Bhabanipur, widely considered her safest political seat. The BJP viewed the Bhabanipur victory as both symbolic and strategic, cementing Adhikari’s stature as the party’s strongest leader in Bengal.
A former Trinamool Congress heavyweight and one-time close aide of Banerjee, Adhikari joined the BJP in December 2020 after differences with the TMC leadership. His switch significantly strengthened the BJP’s grassroots network, particularly in coastal Bengal and East Midnapore.
The swearing-in ceremony of the BJP government will be held at Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata on May 9, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior NDA leaders expected to attend.
The BJP legislature party met in Kolkata under the supervision of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who formally announced Adhikari’s name after it received the backing of newly elected MLAs and senior leaders. “I announce the name of Suvendu Adhikari elected as Leader of West Bengal BJP Legislative Party,” Shah said at the meeting.
The BJP scripted a historic victory in the assembly elections by winning 208 seats and ending the 15-year rule of the Trinamool Congress led by Mamata Banerjee. The verdict marked the BJP’s biggest-ever breakthrough in Bengal politics and completed a rapid rise that began after the 2021 elections.
Adhikari’s elevation comes after a long political rivalry with Banerjee that reshaped Bengal politics. After defeating her in Nandigram in 2021, Adhikari again emerged as the BJP’s central figure in 2026 by defeating Banerjee in Bhabanipur, widely considered her safest political seat. The BJP viewed the Bhabanipur victory as both symbolic and strategic, cementing Adhikari’s stature as the party’s strongest leader in Bengal.
A former Trinamool Congress heavyweight and one-time close aide of Banerjee, Adhikari joined the BJP in December 2020 after differences with the TMC leadership. His switch significantly strengthened the BJP’s grassroots network, particularly in coastal Bengal and East Midnapore.
The swearing-in ceremony of the BJP government will be held at Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata on May 9, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior NDA leaders expected to attend.
16:35 (IST) May 07
West Bengal CM Announcement: BJP eyes first government in Bengal history
With 206 seats, the BJP is poised to form its first-ever government in West Bengal, ending 15 years of Trinamool rule and signalling a historic shift in the state’s political trajectory.
16:10 (IST) May 07
West Bengal CM Announcement: Akhilesh Yadav meets Mamata Banerjee after TMC defeat
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav met TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee on Thursday and expressed solidarity with the party leadership following TMC’s defeat in the West Bengal assembly polls. He was received by TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee at Banerjee’s Kalighat residence.
The meeting comes amid opposition efforts to recalibrate strategies after the assembly poll results. Banerjee has vowed to strengthen the INDIA bloc following the defeat, while Yadav is understood to have discussed the post-poll political situation and reiterated support for opposition unity against the BJP.
The meeting comes amid opposition efforts to recalibrate strategies after the assembly poll results. Banerjee has vowed to strengthen the INDIA bloc following the defeat, while Yadav is understood to have discussed the post-poll political situation and reiterated support for opposition unity against the BJP.
15:44 (IST) May 07
West Bengal CM Announcemen: Agnimitra Paul strengthens profile with big win
Agnimitra Paul retained Asansol Dakshin with a margin of over 40,000 votes, reinforcing her status as one of BJP’s emerging leaders in Bengal. Her name is also being considered for a key cabinet role.
15:23 (IST) May 07
'My aide killed because I defeated Mamata': Suvendu reacts to assistant's death
“The only reason behind Chandranath Rath’s murder is that he was my executive assistant and that I had defeated Mamata Banerjee in Bhabanipur. I will fulfil all my responsibilities,” he said.
15:12 (IST) May 07
Bengal's people voted against this politics of violence: Chirag Paswan on killing of Adhikari's aide
Chirag Paswan on Thursday condemned the killing of Suvendu Adhikari’s aide, describing it as a grim reflection of the “politics of violence” that voters had rejected in the recent West Bengal Assembly elections. Adhikari’s executive assistant, Chandranath Rath, was reportedly shot dead late on Wednesday night after armed assailants forced his vehicle to stop on the outskirts of Kolkata. Speaking to reporters, Paswan suggested that “TMC goons” were behind the attack and accused the ruling party of suppressing the people of Bengal for over 15 years. He said the Centre and Union Home Minister Amit Shah were taking the matter seriously and promised strict action against those responsible.
14:00 (IST) May 07
BJP eyes first government in Bengal history
With 206 seats, the BJP is poised to form its first-ever government in West Bengal, ending 15 years of Trinamool rule and signalling a historic shift in the state’s political trajectory.
13:30 (IST) May 07
West Bengal CM Announcement: Rupa Ganguly’s name surfaces in leadership discussions
Actor-turned-politician Rupa Ganguly, who won Sonarpur Dakshin by a huge margin, is also being discussed in leadership circles. BJP leaders believe her public profile and electoral performance strengthen her appeal within the party.
13:00 (IST) May 07
West Bengal CM Announcement: BJP weighs veterans and new faces for Bengal cabinet
The BJP leadership is expected to balance experienced RSS-linked leaders with newer electoral faces while forming the Bengal cabinet. Party sources said representation from SC, ST and OBC communities will also be a key factor.
12:32 (IST) May 07
West Bengal CM Announcement: Samik Bhattacharya seen as organisational contender
State BJP president Samik Bhattacharya is being viewed as another strong contender due to his organisational role in the party’s expansion across Bengal. Party insiders credit him with strengthening booth management and cadre mobilisation.
11:35 (IST) May 07
West Bengal CM Announcement: Bhabanipur win cements Suvendu’s ‘giantkiller’ image
Adhikari’s victory over Mamata Banerjee in Bhabanipur has reinforced his reputation as a “giantkiller” in Bengal politics. The symbolic importance of defeating the chief minister in her own stronghold has significantly boosted his political standing within the BJP.
11:20 (IST) May 07
West Bengal CM Announcement: Suvendu’s rise marks major political transformation
Suvendu Adhikari’s journey from Trinamool Congress leader to BJP’s principal challenger in Bengal reflects one of the state’s biggest political transformations. After leaving the TMC in 2020, he emerged as the BJP’s strongest leader in the state, helping the party transition from opposition challenger to ruling force.
10:45 (IST) May 07
West Bengal CM Announcement: BJP leadership to decide Bengal CM soon
The BJP is expected to finalise its chief ministerial choice after consultations between Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and party president Nitin Nabin. Party sources said the leadership is also likely to seek inputs from state leaders and central observers before announcing the new chief minister and cabinet.
10:19 (IST) May 07
West Bengal CM Announcement: BJP’s Bengal sweep boosts Suvendu’s leadership claim
The BJP’s commanding victory in Bengal, with over 200 seats, has dramatically reshaped the state’s political landscape and elevated Suvendu Adhikari as the face of the party’s rise. Once Mamata Banerjee’s close aide, Adhikari has now twice defeated her in landmark contests. The Bhabanipur win, following his earlier Nandigram victory, is being viewed as a defining moment in Bengal politics.
10:19 (IST) May 07
West Bengal CM Announcement: Suvendu Adhikari emerges frontrunner for CM post
With the BJP storming to power in West Bengal, attention has shifted to who will become the party’s first chief minister in the state. Suvendu Adhikari has emerged as the strongest contender after defeating Mamata Banerjee in Bhabanipur and retaining Nandigram. His victories in two politically symbolic contests have strengthened his stature within the BJP. Responding to speculation over the top post, Adhikari said, “There is no change in me... I am not power-hungry.”
09:52 (IST) May 07
Murder of Suvendu aide reflects 'complete collapse' of law and order in Bengal, says BJP
The BJP on Thursday intensified its demand for the arrest of those responsible for the killing of a close aide to senior party leader Suvendu Adhikari, claiming the incident reflected a complete breakdown of law and order under the Trinamool Congress government. Chandranath Rath, Adhikari’s executive assistant, was shot dead by unidentified assailants in Madhyamgram on Wednesday night, just 48 hours after the Assembly poll results. Adhikari described the attack as a “cold-blooded murder” and alleged the killers had surveyed the area beforehand. While the TMC denied any involvement and urged the BJP not to politicise the case, the Congress called for a transparent investigation and criticised both parties for exploiting the tragedy. The CPI(M) also condemned the killing and demanded strict, impartial action against those behind the crime.
09:26 (IST) May 07
Murder of Suvendu aide sparks political row; BJP, TMC trade barbs
The killing of a close aide to BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari sparked a sharp political row in West Bengal on Thursday, with the BJP accusing the ruling TMC of allowing lawlessness to flourish, a charge firmly denied by the party led by Mamata Banerjee.
Chandranath Rath, Adhikari’s executive assistant, was shot dead in Madhyamgram on Wednesday night, just two days after the assembly poll results. Police said unidentified assailants on motorcycles stopped Rath’s vehicle near Doltala at around 10.30pm and opened fire before escaping.
The BJP described the incident as evidence of a collapse in law and order, while Adhikari called it a “cold-blooded murder”. The TMC rejected the allegations, urging the BJP not to politicise the case while investigations continue. Congress and CPI(M) leaders also condemned the killing and called for a fair and transparent inquiry.
Chandranath Rath, Adhikari’s executive assistant, was shot dead in Madhyamgram on Wednesday night, just two days after the assembly poll results. Police said unidentified assailants on motorcycles stopped Rath’s vehicle near Doltala at around 10.30pm and opened fire before escaping.
The BJP described the incident as evidence of a collapse in law and order, while Adhikari called it a “cold-blooded murder”. The TMC rejected the allegations, urging the BJP not to politicise the case while investigations continue. Congress and CPI(M) leaders also condemned the killing and called for a fair and transparent inquiry.
08:59 (IST) May 07
West Bengal CM Announcement: Tension grips parts of North 24 Parganas after murder of Suvendu's aide, security tightened
Tension gripped parts of North 24 Parganas in West Bengal on Thursday after BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari’s close aide, Chandranath Rath, was shot dead the previous night. Police increased security in Madhyamgram, Doharia and nearby areas following protests by BJP supporters demanding swift arrests. Officers urged residents to remain calm and ignore rumours while raids and CCTV checks continued. According to preliminary reports, Rath was attacked near Doltala around 10.30 pm by motorcycle-borne assailants who allegedly intercepted his vehicle and opened fire before escaping. The BJP described the killing as a “planned murder” and accused the ruling TMC of political violence, while the TMC claimed its workers had also faced attacks in several districts.
08:40 (IST) May 07
West Bengal CM Announcement: BJP MP Rahul Sinha alleges political vendetta in killing of Suvendu Adhikari's aide
Bharatiya Janata Party MP Rahul Sinha on Thursday strongly criticised the All India Trinamool Congress over the killing of Suvendu Adhikari’s personal assistant, Chandra, alleging political revenge following the Assembly election defeat. Chandra was reportedly shot near Madhyamgram and later died in hospital. Sinha claimed the attack was politically motivated and demanded strict action against those responsible. Adhikari described the incident as a “pre-planned murder” and said senior BJP leaders were monitoring the case. Meanwhile, West Bengal Police have seized a vehicle and recovered cartridges as part of the ongoing investigation.
06:32 (IST) May 07
West Bengal CM Announcement: BJP begins cabinet planning as Bengal power transition gathers pace
The BJP leadership has intensified discussions over cabinet formation and governance priorities as the transition of power in West Bengal gathers momentum.
Party sources said talks are underway regarding ministerial portfolios, regional representation and the inclusion of experienced as well as first-time MLAs in the new government. The BJP Legislative Party meeting on May 8 is expected to formally elect the new leader before the oath-taking ceremony.
Party sources said talks are underway regarding ministerial portfolios, regional representation and the inclusion of experienced as well as first-time MLAs in the new government. The BJP Legislative Party meeting on May 8 is expected to formally elect the new leader before the oath-taking ceremony.
06:32 (IST) May 07
West Bengal CM Announcement: PM Modi to attend Bengal BJP government’s swearing-in on May 9
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to attend the swearing-in ceremony of West Bengal’s first BJP government at Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata on May 9.
Union home minister Amit Shah, BJP president Nitin Nabin and chief ministers from NDA-ruled states are also likely to attend the event. Preparations have already begun at the venue, with officials reviewing security and logistical arrangements.
Union home minister Amit Shah, BJP president Nitin Nabin and chief ministers from NDA-ruled states are also likely to attend the event. Preparations have already begun at the venue, with officials reviewing security and logistical arrangements.
06:32 (IST) May 07
West Bengal CM Announcement: Amit Shah to arrive in Bengal for key BJP meetings after historic win
Union home minister Amit Shah is scheduled to visit West Bengal on Thursday evening as the BJP begins formal discussions on government formation after its historic Assembly election victory.
According to party sources, Shah will chair meetings with senior leaders and core committee members soon after arriving in Kolkata. Discussions are expected to focus on the BJP Legislative Party meeting, cabinet formation and preparations for the oath-taking ceremony.
According to party sources, Shah will chair meetings with senior leaders and core committee members soon after arriving in Kolkata. Discussions are expected to focus on the BJP Legislative Party meeting, cabinet formation and preparations for the oath-taking ceremony.
06:32 (IST) May 07
West Bengal CM Announcement: Suvendu Adhikari emerges as frontrunner for Bengal CM post
BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari has emerged as the leading contender for the chief minister’s post after the BJP’s sweeping victory in West Bengal.
Adhikari strengthened his position after defeating Mamata Banerjee in Bhabanipur, repeating his 2021 Nandigram victory over the Trinamool Congress chief. Sources said the BJP leadership is also considering deputy chief minister posts as part of the new government structure.
Adhikari strengthened his position after defeating Mamata Banerjee in Bhabanipur, repeating his 2021 Nandigram victory over the Trinamool Congress chief. Sources said the BJP leadership is also considering deputy chief minister posts as part of the new government structure.
06:31 (IST) May 07
West Bengal CM Announcement: Mamata Banerjee says she will not resign after TMC’s poll defeat
Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday said she would not resign voluntarily as chief minister following the party’s defeat in the Assembly elections.
Addressing newly elected MLAs and senior leaders at Kalighat, Banerjee alleged electoral irregularities and called the election outcome a “black day”. She also urged party members to wear black clothes on the first day of the new Assembly session.
Addressing newly elected MLAs and senior leaders at Kalighat, Banerjee alleged electoral irregularities and called the election outcome a “black day”. She also urged party members to wear black clothes on the first day of the new Assembly session.
Suvendu Adhikari was on Friday formally elected leader of the BJP legislature party in West Bengal, clearing the way for the formation of the state’s first BJP government after the party’s sweeping victory in the assembly elections.
The legislature party meeting was held in Kolkata in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who announced Adhikari’s election as leader. The BJP’s victory ended the 15-year rule of the Trinamool Congress and marked the party’s biggest political breakthrough in Bengal.
Adhikari emerged as the clear frontrunner for the chief minister’s post after securing victories from both Nandigram and Bhabanipur — the latter considered the political stronghold of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. His Bhabanipur win by more than 15,000 votes was viewed within BJP circles as a symbolic turning point in Bengal politics.
Once one of Banerjee’s closest associates and a key strategist of the TMC’s expansion in rural Bengal, Adhikari switched to the BJP in 2020 amid growing differences with the party leadership.
The swearing-in ceremony of the new BJP government will be held at Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata on May 9. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Shah and chief ministers of NDA-ruled states are expected to attend.
The legislature party meeting was held in Kolkata in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who announced Adhikari’s election as leader. The BJP’s victory ended the 15-year rule of the Trinamool Congress and marked the party’s biggest political breakthrough in Bengal.
Adhikari emerged as the clear frontrunner for the chief minister’s post after securing victories from both Nandigram and Bhabanipur — the latter considered the political stronghold of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. His Bhabanipur win by more than 15,000 votes was viewed within BJP circles as a symbolic turning point in Bengal politics.
Once one of Banerjee’s closest associates and a key strategist of the TMC’s expansion in rural Bengal, Adhikari switched to the BJP in 2020 amid growing differences with the party leadership.
The swearing-in ceremony of the new BJP government will be held at Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata on May 9. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Shah and chief ministers of NDA-ruled states are expected to attend.
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