BJP-Led Government to Be Sworn In on May 9 in West Bengal

 

BJP-Led Government to Be Sworn In on May 9 in West Bengal

The newly elected government led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in West Bengal will take the oath of office on May 9, coinciding with the birth anniversary of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, state BJP president Samik Bhattacharya said on Tuesday.

“The Prime Minister announced yesterday that on 25th Baisakh—that is, May 9, Rabindranath Tagore’s birthday—this government will take the oath,” Bhattacharya told ANI, calling the moment historic for the state.

Addressing concerns over post-election tensions, Bhattacharya condemned reports of vandalism involving BJP flags and warned of strict disciplinary action. “Some minor incidents have come to light where vandalism was done... We condemn this. If anyone does this, we will be forced to expel them from the party,” he said, adding that authorities must ensure law and order.

He also urged party workers to celebrate responsibly. “Celebrate the victory, but don’t do anything that hurts anyone’s feelings. As big as our victory, our responsibility is also that big,” he said.

Highlighting the breadth of support, Bhattacharya credited voters across regions, including members of the diaspora, for contributing to the party’s success. “From Toronto to Silicon Valley... people came and supported. Migrant labourers spent from their own pockets to vote. This was a sentiment for change,” he said.

Describing the result as a turning point, Bhattacharya said the BJP aims to go beyond a change in leadership. “Our goal was not just to change a government or Chief Minister, but to transform political culture and restore social pluralism,” he said, referring to the formation of a “double-engine government” aligned with the Centre.

He dismissed criticism from opposition leaders, including claims of an “immoral victory.” “Let them say what they want. If it gives them peace, we have no objection,” he said.

On the election outcome, Bhattacharya said the defeat of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in Bhabanipur signaled a loss of public confidence. Senior BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari defeated Banerjee by more than 15,000 votes, marking a symbolic shift in the state’s political landscape.

The BJP secured a decisive victory in the 2026 Assembly elections, winning more than 200 seats and ending the dominance of the All India Trinamool Congress, which was reduced to around 80 seats.