Amit Shah Announces Shuvendu Adhikari as West Bengal’s 9th Chief Minister

May 08, 2026: Suvendu Adhikari has been elected as the leader of the BJP legislature party, paving the way for him to become the ninth Chief Minister of West Bengal. The decision was taken on Friday during a crucial meeting of the BJP legislature party in Kolkata, held in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who served as the party’s central observer for the leadership selection process.

According to official confirmation, Amit Shah announced to the media after the meeting, “I announce the name of Suvendu Adhikari as the elected Leader of the West Bengal BJP Legislative Party.” The decision marks a major political transition in the state following the recently concluded Assembly elections.

BJP Forms Government After Electoral Victory in Bengal

The development comes after the BJP secured a decisive mandate in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, winning 207 seats and establishing a clear majority. Earlier on Thursday, West Bengal Governor R.N. Ravi dissolved the state Assembly, formally ending the 15-year tenure of the previous government and setting the stage for the formation of a new administration.

Suvendu Adhikari, who has been a key figure in the state’s political landscape, is now set to take oath as Chief Minister at the Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata on Saturday. The ceremony coincides with Rabindra Jayanti and is expected to witness the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, BJP national president Nitin Nabin, several Union ministers, and chief ministers from NDA-ruled states.

🚨 OFFICIAL! Home Minister Amit Shah announces Suvendu Adhikari as the Leader of the West Bengal BJP Legislature Party.

Suvendu Adhikari will now become West Bengal’s next Chief Minister.

The giant-slayer of Bengal defeated Mamata Banerjee twice.pic.twitter.com/6AxYUgfqTp https://t.co/p7aCKgcuXQ

— Gaurav (@k_gauravs) May 8, 2026

Political Background and Leadership Role

Suvendu Adhikari, who played a significant role in strengthening the BJP’s organisational structure in West Bengal after joining the party in 2020, has been credited with mobilizing cadres and expanding the party’s grassroots reach across the state. His leadership during the election campaign is being viewed as a key factor behind the BJP’s strong performance.

He is expected to assume office as the ninth Chief Minister of West Bengal, with reports also indicating that the new government may include two Deputy Chief Ministers, although their names have not yet been officially announced.

Post-Election Developments and Transition Process

Following the announcement, BJP legislators are expected to proceed to Raj Bhavan to formally stake claim to form the government. With a clear majority in the Assembly, the party has completed the procedural steps required for government formation, and only formal approval from the Governor remains.

The swearing-in ceremony on Saturday will mark the beginning of a new political chapter in West Bengal, as the state transitions to a new leadership structure after a prolonged period under the previous administration.