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

BJP likely to form government in West Bengal on May 9, coinciding with Rabindra Jayanti. Oath ceremony expected after completion of formal procedures.

BJP’s swearing-in ceremony of its new government in West Bengal will most probably take place on May 9, which is also Rabindra Jayanti.

According to sources who are privy to the affairs of government formation, the date has been fixed not only in the context of political change but also as a symbolic start. The state president of BJP, Samik Bhattacharya, confirmed the schedule, saying that the oath ceremony of the new CM will happen on May 9.

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Political shift meets cultural symbolism

The proposed date aligns with the birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore, whose legacy remains central to Bengal’s cultural identity. Known as Pochishe Boishakh in the Bengali calendar, the day is observed across the state through music, poetry recitations and cultural programmes celebrating Tagore’s contributions.

#WATCH | Kolkata | BJP State President Samik Bhattacharya says, "The oath-taking ceremony of the new Chief Minister of West Bengal will take place on 9th May..." pic.twitter.com/KVyR0AwN5y
— ANI (@ANI) May 5, 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier hinted at the timeline during his final campaign rally in Barrackpore, expressing confidence that he would return to attend the oath ceremony following the election results.

After the results, Modi invoked Tagore’s ideals while addressing party workers, echoing the sentiment of a Bengal “where the mind is without fear and the head is held high,” referencing the poet’s iconic vision.

Formal process underway

Senior representatives of the Election Commission of India are set to arrive in Kolkata to finalise the formalities associated with the election results. The official gazette notice will be submitted to the Chief Electoral Officer, after which the Governor will be informed.

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BJP wins the Assembly election of West Bengal, Assam and Puducherry ANI

As part of the constitutionally mandated process, Governor RN Ravi will formally ask the incumbent Chief Minister, Mamata Banerjee, to resign. He will most probably be asked to remain in a caretaker capacity until the formation of the new government.

A landmark political moment

A confirmation of this will signal a major change in West Bengal’s politics, where the BJP is set to take charge following years of control by either the Left Front or the Trinamool Congress.

Selecting Rabindra Jayanti for the oath-taking ceremony makes this occasion more significant as it connects the political transition with the intellectual tradition of Bengal.