Who is Ashok Kirtania? BJP MLA from Bangaon Uttar who received PM Modi’s hug after oath ceremony

In the newly formed BJP-led government in West Bengal, Ashok Kirtania has quickly emerged as one of the prominent faces to watch. The BJP leader took oath as a minister on Saturday during the swearing-in ceremony held at Kolkata’s Brigade Parade Ground, where Suvendu Adhikari was sworn in as the Chief Minister.

Kirtania drew attention during the event after Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted him warmly with a hug following the oath-taking ceremony. The moment soon gained traction among party workers and supporters.

Who is Ashok Kirtania?

Ashok Kirtania represents the Bangaon Uttar Assembly constituency in the North 24 Parganas district. He won the seat on a BJP ticket in the recent West Bengal Assembly elections and improved his winning margin significantly compared to the previous election.

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He defeated TMC candidate Biswajit Das by more than 40,000 votes. Kirtania had also won the same constituency in the 2021 Assembly elections, strengthening his position in the region over the years.

Known for his grassroots organisational work, Kirtania has remained active in local politics and party mobilisation in the border belt of North 24 Parganas. His political rise has been closely linked to the BJP’s efforts to expand its base in the Matua-dominated areas near the Bangladesh border.

Why Ashok Kirtania’s role matters

Although the portfolios of ministers are yet to be announced, Ashok Kirtania is expected to play an important role in the Suvendu Adhikari-led government.

Political observers see his influence in the border constituency as a major factor behind his growing importance within the party. During the election campaign, issues linked to border security and alleged infiltration from Bangladesh became major talking points, especially in districts close to the international border.

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His electoral performance is also being viewed as a boost for the BJP in the Bangaon region, where the party has been trying to consolidate support among Matua voters.

PM Modi congratulates ministers

Several BJP leaders took oath as ministers alongside Kirtania, including Dilip Ghosh, Agnimitra Paul, Kshudiram Tudu and Nisith Pramanik.

In a post on X, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the newly sworn-in ministers.

He wrote, “Congratulations to Shri Dilip Ghosh Ji, Agnimitra Paul Ji, Ashok Kirtania Ji, Kshudiram Tudu Ji, and Nisith Pramanik Ji for taking oath as ministers of the West Bengal government. These leaders have tirelessly worked at the grassroots level and served the people. I am confident that as ministers, they will further strengthen West Bengal's journey of development. My very best wishes.”