West Bengal entered a new political era on Saturday as BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari was sworn in as Chief Minister after the party’s historic victory ended the TMC’s 15-year rule, while senior Trinamool Congress leader Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay was appointed Leader of Opposition in the Assembly.
The oath-taking ceremony took place at Kolkata’s Brigade Parade Grounds in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Governor R.N. Ravi, Union ministers, BJP leaders, and chief ministers from NDA-ruled states. Governor Ravi administered the oath of office and secrecy to Adhikari, who became the first BJP Chief Minister of West Bengal.
The event drew large crowds, with chants of “Jai Shri Ram” filling the venue as Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in an open vehicle and greeted supporters gathered at the grounds.
Also Read | ‘Don’t worry, we will fight’: Mamata Banerjee calls for opposition unity in Bengal and Delhi
TMC moves to opposition benches
Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay’s appointment as the Leader of Opposition marks a significant moment for the Trinamool Congress, which has moved to the opposition benches after ruling West Bengal for 15 years.
All India Trinamool Congress has unanimously decided that the following members shall hold the respective positions in the 18th West Bengal Legislative Assembly:
— All India Trinamool Congress (@AITCofficial) May 9, 2026
1. Leader of Opposition:
Shri Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay
2. Deputy Leaders of Opposition:
Smt. Asima Patra and Smt.… pic.twitter.com/L5KTDkywnr
The BJP registered a landslide victory in the 294-member Assembly by winning 207 seats, while the TMC was reduced to 80 seats. The result marked the BJP’s first-ever rise to power in the state and one of the biggest political shifts in Bengal in recent years.
Also Read | Baharampur TMC councillor arrested over alleged obstruction during Adhir Chowdhury campaign
Ahead of the swearing-in ceremony, Adhikari had said that an “era of fear” in West Bengal had ended. He also stated that the BJP government would function through collective leadership and work towards implementing promises made in the party’s election manifesto in coordination with the Centre.
First administrative meeting scheduled
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari is also set to chair a meeting with senior police officials at Nabanna Sabhagarh on Monday, May 11.
The meeting is expected to be one of the new government’s first major administrative interactions after assuming office.
