A New Era in West Bengal Politics: Amit Shah's Key Meeting

Amit Shah's recent visit to Kolkata marks a significant turning point in West Bengal's political landscape. As the BJP prepares to elect its new Chief Minister, Shubhendu Adhikari emerges as the leading candidate following his victory over Mamata Banerjee. This article explores the implications of this leadership change and the upcoming oath-taking ceremony, set to be attended by prominent political figures. With the BJP's impressive electoral win, the dynamics of West Bengal politics are poised for transformation.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 8, 2026, 12:02 IST

A Transformative Meeting in Kolkata

West Bengal is on the brink of a significant political shift. This morning, Union Home Minister Amit Shah arrived in Kolkata, where he is set to hold a crucial meeting with the newly elected legislators of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). During this gathering, the leader of the legislative party will be formally elected, who will take charge as the next Chief Minister of the state. Accompanying Shah will be Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Chandra Majhi, who will serve as an observer for the meeting. The former BJP president reached Kolkata this morning, and the legislative meeting is expected to take place around 4 PM. This development follows the dissolution of the West Bengal Assembly by Governor RN Ravi, just a day after its term ended.

Shubhendu Adhikari: The Front-Runner for Chief Minister

In the race to become the leader of the BJP's legislative party, Shubhendu Adhikari is currently in the lead. His selection would pave the way for him to become the next Chief Minister. Adhikari played a pivotal role in the party's election campaign in Bengal. Additionally, his victory over Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Mamata Banerjee in her Bhawanipur constituency has further bolstered his chances of being appointed as Chief Minister.

The Irony of Adhikari's Rise

Adhikari's ascent in Bengal's political landscape is filled with irony. He was once a trusted aide of Banerjee and assisted her in ousting the Left from power in 2011. However, he joined the BJP before the 2021 elections, a move many viewed as a gamble. During this year's campaign, Adhikari remarked, "I was part of the 2011 'parivartan' (change), and now I am part of the real change."

Other Contenders for Chief Minister

Other leaders such as Dilip Ghosh, Samik Bhattacharya, Agnimitra Paul, and Roopa Ganguly are also in the running for the Chief Minister position, but Adhikari remains the frontrunner.

Preparations for the Oath Ceremony

Meanwhile, preparations are underway for the oath-taking ceremony of the new Chief Minister at the Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata, scheduled for Saturday morning around 10 AM. In addition to Shah, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, several central ministers, and Chief Ministers from NDA-ruled states are expected to attend the event.

BJP's Remarkable Victory in West Bengal

According to the final results, the BJP has achieved a remarkable victory in the West Bengal elections, securing 207 seats. The TMC won 80 seats, while the Congress and the Aam Janata Uthaan Party each managed to win two seats. The Communist Party of India (Marxist) secured just one seat.