Amit Shah Arrives in Kolkata to Finalise Bengal’s First BJP Chief Minister

Union Home Minister Amit Shah landed in Kolkata on Friday morning to steer the formation of West Bengal’s first BJP-led government, with the legislature party meeting set to formally elect its leader later in the day. Suvendu Adhikari is widely expected to emerge as the chief minister-designate, marking a historic shift in the state’s politics after the BJP’s decisive victory in the recent assembly elections.

Shah was received at the airport by senior BJP leaders, including Suvendu Adhikari and state president Dilip Ghosh. He greeted enthusiastic party workers waving flags and cutouts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi before proceeding to offer prayers at the historic Dakshineswar Kali Temple.

Legislature Party Meet at 2 PM

The Union Minister is scheduled to chair the BJP legislature party meeting at Novotel Kolkata at 2 pm as the central observer. Sources familiar with the preparations said the meeting would formally elect the leader of the legislature party, paving the way for government formation. BJP MP Rahul Sinha told reporters that “everything will be clear by 6 pm.”

Security was tightened across key locations in the city, with additional forces deployed around the hotel and other sensitive areas. Preparations are also underway at the Brigade Parade Ground for the swearing-in ceremony, expected to take place on Saturday, May 9.

No Separate Minority Department

Meanwhile, West Bengal BJP president Dilip Ghosh made it clear that the new government would not create a separate Minority Department. Addressing the party’s approach, Ghosh said minorities had already benefited from various development schemes and would continue to do so under the principle of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.”

“Development is for all citizens. We do not believe in exclusive benefits for any one community,” Ghosh stated, reiterating the party’s commitment to inclusive governance.

Recent Violence and Security Concerns

The political transition comes amid heightened tensions. On May 6, Suvendu Adhikari’s personal assistant Chandranath Rath was shot dead near Daltala in Madhyamgram while returning home. The attack, in which his driver was also injured, has raised serious questions about post-poll violence. Adhikari described the killing as linked to his role in defeating Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee from Bhabanipur and strongly condemned the incident.

Police have launched investigations, with security assessments conducted in districts like Purba Medinipur. Incidents of clashes between BJP and TMC workers were also reported in areas such as Howrah’s Shivpur, prompting heavy deployment of forces.

Opposition Reactions

Trinamool Congress has criticised the Governor’s decision to dissolve the assembly, calling it “undemocratic.” Senior TMC leader Saugata Roy said the party would issue a rejoinder soon. Mamata Banerjee has maintained she will not resign from her post, alleging a conspiracy and accusing the Election Commission of bias.

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav met Banerjee in Kolkata on Thursday and expressed solidarity with INDIA bloc allies. BJP leaders dismissed the meeting as a “discussion of frustration.”

Public Sentiment and Preparations

As Kolkata gears up for the new government, BJP flags and banners have appeared across several parts of the city. Party workers and supporters expressed optimism about the change, citing expectations of improved governance, law and order, and development. Local residents, however, remain cautious amid reports of sporadic violence and political uncertainty.

Security assessments continue in various districts, with police confirming arrests in some post-poll cases. The family of the injured driver in the Madhyamgram incident has demanded strict action against those responsible.

The swearing-in at Brigade Parade Ground tomorrow is likely to be a major event, with senior central leaders expected to attend. Political observers see this as not just a change of guard but a potential realignment in Bengal’s political landscape after years of TMC dominance.

The coming days will be crucial as the new government takes shape and begins addressing immediate challenges, including restoring public confidence and maintaining law and order during the transition.