BJP appoints Amit Shah as Bengal observer for CM pick as party prepares to form government

BJP appoints Amit Shah as Bengal observer for Chief Minister selection, as the party moves swiftly towards government formation after a decisive election win.

By Pritha Chakraborty

May 05, 2026 14:57 IST

Amit Shah has been appointed as the BJP’s central observer for West Bengal, setting the stage for the selection of the party’s legislative leader and the formation of its first government in the state.

The process is expected to pave the way for the announcement of the chief minister. The swearing-in ceremony of the new BJP government in West Bengal is scheduled for May 9.

In Assam, the party has named Union minister JP Nadda as the central observer. Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini will assist him in overseeing the election of the legislative party leader.

Historic mandate reshapes Bengal politics

The BJP secured a decisive victory in West Bengal, winning 207 seats in the 294-member Assembly. The result marks a major political shift in the state, bringing an end to the 15-year rule of the Trinamool Congress.

Also Read | BJP likely to take oath in Bengal on May 9, Rabindra Jayanti adds symbolism

The TMC finished with 80 seats, while Congress and AJUP managed two seats each. CPI(M) was reduced to a single seat, reflecting the scale of the BJP’s surge across the state.

BJP set to form government in West Bengal for the first time /ANI

In Assam, the BJP also registered a strong performance, winning 82 seats and retaining power comfortably.

High-profile Bhabanipur battle turns decisive

One of the most closely watched contests unfolded in Bhabanipur, where BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari defeated Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

Also Read | West Bengal elections: EC orders recount in Rajarhat New Town amid tight margin

Adhikari won by a margin of 15,105 votes, according to Election Commission data. The result came after an initial phase where Banerjee had maintained a lead.

BJP supporters and workers celebrate the BJP's victory in the West Bengal Assembly /ANI

While Adhikari secured 73,917 votes, Banerjee polled 58,812 votes.

“I thank the people of Bhabanipur for voting for me and ensuring a margin of over 15,000 votes,” Adhikari said after receiving his winning certificate.

The outcome mirrors the 2021 Nandigram contest, where Adhikari had earlier defeated Banerjee, reinforcing his position as a key figure in Bengal’s political landscape.