Expelled Trinamool Congress leader Riju Dutta claims more than 50 of the party's 80 MLAs are ready to declare themselves the "real" TMC, as Mamata Banerjee leads a protest in Kolkata against alleged post-poll attacks on party leaders.

Rebel Faction Sharpens Claims

The Trinamool Congress is facing its most serious internal challenge in years, with expelled party leader Riju Dutta claiming that over 50 of the party's 80 MLAs are prepared to break away and declare themselves the legitimate face of the All India Trinamool Congress. The rebel group is also said to be seeking the Leader of Opposition post and the party symbol — moves that could trigger a formal split and a prolonged legal battle over the party's identity.

West Bengal minister Tapas Roy added fuel to the fire on Tuesday, saying plainly: "The party will break, which it should." His remarks, made amid an ongoing session of the state legislature, were among the most candid acknowledgements yet from within TMC ranks that the crisis may be irreversible.

Mamata Takes to the Streets

Even as the split speculation mounted, TMC Chairperson and former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee was on the ground in Kolkata, leading a sit-in protest at Rani Rashmoni Avenue against alleged post-poll violence targeting party leaders. Before arriving at the protest site, she paid floral tributes to B R Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi on Red Road — a deliberate symbolic gesture, observers noted, ahead of what the party is framing as a democratic rights protest.

Several senior TMC figures were present at the site, including newly appointed Leader of Opposition Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay, Chandrima Bhattacharya, Indranil Sen, and MP Kalyan Banerjee, who had earlier met Mamata at her Kalighat residence.

Abhishek Banerjee Among Those Allegedly Targeted

At the heart of the TMC's protest is the alleged assault on party National General Secretary and Mamata's nephew Abhishek Banerjee. According to party leaders, a crowd attacked Abhishek and threw eggs at him — an incident the TMC says is emblematic of a wider pattern of politically motivated violence against its representatives in the wake of the state assembly elections.

Kalyan Banerjee, a senior TMC MP, was also said to have been targeted. The party has demanded strict police action and accused the state's new administration of allowing — and in some cases facilitating — the attacks.

Mamata Hits Out at Police, EVMs

Addressing supporters at the protest, Mamata Banerjee levelled serious allegations against law enforcement. "Cops are threatening our leaders. The CP of Chandannagar called our leader and asked him to resign, otherwise he would be arrested," she said, claiming TMC leaders across the state were being picked up in what she described as false cases.

She also renewed her challenge to the election results, alleging that the BJP had rigged counting in 177 of 294 assembly seats. "The EVMs have been hacked. We are maintaining peace, but the government is promoting lawlessness," she said. West Bengal's new Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, speaking separately on Tuesday, did not respond directly to the fraud allegations but issued statements on cultural nationalism, saying recitation of Vande Mataram had been made mandatory in all state schools.

Assembly Appointments, Speaker Standoff

The TMC moved to formalise its role in the new assembly on Tuesday, submitting appointments for its legislative team. Sobhandeb Chattopadhyay has been named Leader of Opposition, with Ashima Patra and Nayana Bandopadhyay as Deputy Leaders, and Firhad Hakim as Chief Whip.

However, the process hit a bureaucratic snag almost immediately. TMC leader Kunal Ghosh said that when he and Ashima Patra went to the Speaker's office to submit the letter, the Speaker was absent. The office secretary reportedly told them the Speaker had verbally instructed that no letter be received. "What kind of custodian of democracy is the Speaker?" Ghosh said.

What Comes Next

The coming days are likely to be decisive. If the rebel MLAs formally declare their faction the "real" Trinamool and stake a claim to the party's symbol, the matter will move to the Election Commission — a process that can take months and has historically torn parties apart. For now, Mamata's counter-move appears to be keeping her core loyalists visible and vocal while the expulsion of rebel leaders signals she is not in a mood for negotiation.

West Bengal Police have arrested five individuals in connection with the stone-pelting and scuffle that targeted Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee during his visit to violence-hit South Sonarpur on Saturday. The development has intensified political tensions in the state following the BJP’s victory in the 2026 Assembly elections.

The arrests were made after overnight raids on Sunday, with police relying heavily on video footage from the area. Officials said the accused have been identified as local residents allegedly linked to the incident.

Attack During Political Visit

Abhishek Banerjee had gone to South Sonarpur in South 24 Parganas district to meet TMC workers who claimed they were targeted in post-poll violence. According to party leaders, a group of protesters, reportedly BJP supporters, surrounded his vehicle, raised slogans, and pelted him with stones, eggs, and shoes. His shirt was torn in the scuffle.

Security personnel quickly intervened and escorted the MP out of the area. Images and videos circulating on social media showed Banerjee emerging wearing a protective helmet. Party workers said the situation turned chaotic within minutes of his arrival.

Mamata Banerjee Calls it a Conspiracy

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who visited Banerjee at a Kolkata hospital, strongly condemned the attack. She described it as a “pre-planned conspiracy” and said the MP was lucky to have escaped serious injury.

“If he had not been wearing a helmet, he could have died on the spot,” Mamata told reporters. She claimed that blood clots had formed following the assault and questioned the sequence of medical events. 

The Chief Minister alleged that BJP leaders and a senior police officer had put pressure on hospital authorities to discharge Abhishek Banerjee early. She raised doubts over his initial admission to the Intensive Therapy Unit and subsequent shift.

Shift to Home Treatment

Banerjee has since been taken home from the hospital. According to Mamata, he will now be under the care of a family doctor, with oxygen cylinders and other necessary equipment arranged at his residence. 

TMC sources said the MP met the family of a local party worker who was killed in post-election clashes in the region before the attack occurred.

Police Investigation Underway

South 24 Parganas police have registered a case and are examining multiple video clips and eyewitness statements. A senior officer confirmed that further arrests cannot be ruled out as the probe continues. 

The area has a history of political clashes between TMC and BJP cadres. South Sonarpur remains one of the more sensitive pockets in the district, with repeated incidents reported in recent years.

Post-Poll Violence Backdrop

The incident comes weeks after the 2026 West Bengal Assembly election results, in which the BJP secured a historic majority. The party, led by Suvendu Adhikari, won 208 seats while the TMC was reduced to 80. Several seats in Abhishek Banerjee’s parliamentary constituency also went to the BJP. 

The Sonarpur South Assembly seat is currently held by BJP MLA Roopa Ganguly, who defeated the TMC candidate in the polls. Local tensions have remained high since the results were declared, with both sides accusing each other of violence and intimidation.

Reactions Pour In

The BJP has denied any involvement in the attack and accused the TMC of staging the incident to gain sympathy and divert attention from post-poll setbacks. Party leaders called Mamata Banerjee’s allegations “baseless and politically motivated.”

Senior TMC leaders, meanwhile, demanded a fair and time-bound investigation and alleged that the local administration was soft on the attackers. 

The attack has once again highlighted the deeply polarised political atmosphere in rural and semi-urban pockets of South 24 Parganas. Many residents say everyday life continues to be disrupted by rival political groups even after the elections.

As of now, Abhishek Banerjee is reported to be stable. Police have increased security in the South Sonarpur area to prevent any further flare-ups. The case remains under active investigation.

Bengal cabinet approves Seventh Pay Commission; women to get free state bus travel

Seventh State Pay Commission cleared, Annapurna scheme approved and religion-based welfare plans to be axed; free bus rides for women from June 1

The West Bengal cabinet on Monday approved the constitution of a Seventh State Pay Commission to review and redraw the salary structure for state government employees, a key early move by the new BJP-led administration under Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. The decision — among several welfare and administrative measures cleared at a morning meeting in Kolkata — is being viewed as the government’s effort to deliver on pre-election promises while reshaping some legacy programmes.

Pay commission formally set up
According to officials who attended the meeting, formal approval was given to constitute the Seventh State Pay Commission, tasked with examining pay scales, allowances and related service conditions for the state’s workforce. “The cabinet has approved setting up the pay commission,” Minister Agnimitra Paul told reporters after the meeting. The panel’s terms of reference, membership and timetable were not disclosed immediately.

Free bus travel for women
In another high-profile decision, the cabinet gave in-principle approval for free travel for women in all state-run government buses from June 1. State transport authorities will issue implementing guidelines in the coming days, officials said. The measure is slated to cover the state transport corporation and other government-operated bus services, though private and interstate services were not mentioned.

New welfare move: Annapurna Yojana
The cabinet also cleared the Annapurna Yojana under the Department of Women and Child Development and Social Welfare — a nutrition and food-assistance scheme aimed at vulnerable populations. Officials said the Annapurna Bhandar programme will be launched as part of the government’s social welfare push, but detailed beneficiary lists, funding allocations and operational plans will be announced after further consultations.

Religion-based schemes to end
In a major administrative shift, the government decided to discontinue certain assistance programmes that were administered on the basis of religious classification under the Information and Cultural Affairs Department and the Minority Affairs and Madrasa Education Department. Sources said these schemes will continue for the current month but will be stopped from next month. Officials framed the move as part of a broader realignment of welfare schemes, but did not provide figures on how many beneficiaries would be affected.

DA, OBC review left for later
Despite expectations among state employees for an immediate Dearness Allowance (DA) hike, the DA issue was not discussed at Monday’s meeting. Sources close to the administration said the DA would be examined separately, suggesting employees may have to wait for a dedicated session. The cabinet did, however, clear a review of Other Backward Classes (OBC) reservations and sub-categorisation for state government posts. Agnimitra Paul said fresh inquiries will be launched and decisions will follow directions issued by the Calcutta High Court on inclusion of communities in the OBC list.

Ground-level reactions
Reaction from employee unions and opposition parties was swift. A leader of one government staff association, speaking on condition of anonymity, said workers will press for an early announcement on DA and want the pay commission to move quickly. Opposition figures called for transparency on which religion-based schemes will be discontinued and urged the state to publish beneficiary data before changes take effect.

Implementation questions remain
Officials acknowledged several implementation challenges. Transport department sources said logistics for free women’s travel — from funding compensation to issuing smartcards or passes — must be finalised within days. Similarly, social welfare officers said the Annapurna rollout will require coordination with district administrations and existing food distribution channels.

What happens next
The immediate next steps include formal notification of the pay commission’s terms and timelines, and an official government order detailing the scope and start date for free bus travel for women. The state has also prepared to launch fresh inquiries into OBC lists, with district-level teams expected to collect records and submissions over the coming months.

With several measures aimed at signalling a policy reset and welfare focus, the administration faces the practical test of translating these cabinet decisions into functioning programmes on the ground — all under a tight timetable and sharp public scrutiny.

BSF to get land within 45 days: Bengal joins Ayushman Bharat as CM Suvendu clears 6 major moves

In his first Cabinet meeting at Nabanna, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced the implementation of several central schemes and a crackdown on illegal border activities.

Kolkata: Marking a tectonic shift in West Bengal’s administrative direction, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Monday chaired his first cabinet meeting at Nabanna, clearing six major policy decisions that align the state closely with the Centre. Highlighting national security and public welfare as immediate priorities, the Chief Minister announced that all pending land requirements for the Border Security Force (BSF) would be cleared within 45 days.

The meeting, which took place just two days after the BJP government was sworn in following a landslide victory, also saw the official entry of West Bengal into the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme—a long-standing point of contention between the previous TMC regime and the Union government.

Focus on border security and land transfer

The decision to expedite land handover to the BSF is being seen as the new administration's first major move to curb illegal infiltration. Addressing the media after the session, Adhikari alleged that the previous government had deliberately stalled border fencing projects.

“National security cannot be a matter of political negotiation. We have directed the Land and Land Reforms Department to ensure that 100% of the required land for fencing along the international border is handed over to the BSF within 45 days,” the Chief Minister said. Sources in the state secretariat indicated that nearly 90% of the land identification process is already in its final stages.

Rollout of Ayushman Bharat and central schemes

In a move that will impact millions of families, the cabinet gave its nod to implement the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, popularly known as Ayushman Bharat, in West Bengal. The Health Secretary has been instructed to sign the necessary Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Union Health Ministry immediately.

Beyond healthcare, the state will now also adopt other flagship central programmes including PM Vishwakarma, PM SHRI, and the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao initiative. The Chief Minister emphasized that these schemes would complement existing state-run social programs, which he assured would not be stopped but made more transparent through updated DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer) portals.

Relief for government job aspirants

Addressing a key poll promise that resonated with the state’s youth, the cabinet approved a five-year relaxation in the upper age limit for government job applicants. This move is intended to compensate for the "lost years" of recruitment cycles that were allegedly frozen or marred by litigation in the past decade.

“We are committed to the youth of Bengal. This relaxation will ensure that those who missed out on opportunities due to administrative delays get a fair shot at serving the state,” Adhikari added.

Administrative and legal overhaul

The cabinet also signaled a shift in how the state’s bureaucracy and police interact with the Centre. West Bengal cadre IAS and IPS officers will now be permitted to attend central government training programs, a practice that had seen significant friction previously.

On the legal front, the government announced the full implementation of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The Chief Minister noted that criminal and anti-social activities would be dealt with strictly under the new central laws, adding that the state would also immediately begin the 2025 Census process as per the Ministry of Home Affairs circular.

Tribute to political martyrs

The meeting began with a formal tribute to 321 individuals described by the government as "martyrs" of political violence in Bengal. Adhikari stated that the families of these workers would receive the state's full support.

“This government is born out of the sacrifice of our workers. We will ensure justice reaches every corner of Bengal where lawlessness once prevailed,” he said.

Crackdown on syndicates and smuggling

Earlier in the day, Nabanna issued high-level instructions to district Superintendents of Police to initiate an immediate crackdown on cattle smuggling and "syndicate raj" (unauthorised construction and supply cartels).

A separate law-and-order review meeting was held at 5 pm, where senior officials including the Director General of Police and the Kolkata Police Commissioner were briefed on the new government's policing priorities.

Future roadmap for the Cabinet

The next cabinet meeting is scheduled for next Monday, where the government is expected to discuss the formation of a fact-finding committee regarding the RG Kar case and other issues concerning women's safety. Senior leaders like Dilip Ghosh and Agnimitra Paul, who were present at today's meeting along with other newly inducted ministers, are expected to play a central role in these upcoming deliberations.

As the Adhikari administration moves towards a "paperless office" system and a complete administrative overhaul, the first day’s decisions have set a clear, aggressive tone for the BJP’s debut innings in West Bengal.

PM Modi Arrives in Kolkata as Suvendu Adhikari Set to Take Oath as Bengal CM Today

Thousands gather at Brigade Parade Ground for historic swearing-in ceremony; 20 NDA chief ministers to attend

Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed at the RCTC Ground in Kolkata just before 10 am on Saturday, marking the start of a high-stakes day that will see Suvendu Adhikari sworn in as West Bengal's first BJP chief minister. The oath-taking ceremony is scheduled for 11 am at the historic Brigade Parade Ground.

Adhikari, dressed in a saffron kurta for the occasion, arrived at the airport to receive the Prime Minister. The gesture carried political weight, signalling the close coordination between the BJP's central leadership and its newest state government.

Historic Transition of Power

The legislative party meeting held Friday at a Convention Centre in Kolkata formally elected Adhikari as their leader. Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced the decision shortly after. Adhikari then met the Governor at Lok Bhavan to stake claim for forming the government.

For the BJP, this represents a breakthrough in a state it had never governed before. The party's performance in last month's assembly elections reshaped West Bengal's political map.

Massive Gathering Expected

Authorities expect over one lakh people to assemble at the Brigade Parade Ground. Four thousand security personnel have been deployed across the venue. Barricades are being installed to manage the crowd, and waterproof tents have been set up as a precaution against unpredictable late-morning weather.

The pandal features a Bengal theme with approximately 20 varieties of flowers used for decoration. A large floral rangoli has been arranged before the main stage. The vehicle meant to carry Adhikari and PM Modi to the podium has also been specially decorated.

NDA Leaders Flock to Kolkata

Chief ministers from 20 NDA and BJP-ruled states have arrived to attend the ceremony. Among those confirmed present are Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath, Delhi CM Rekha Gupta, Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami, Bihar CM Samrat Choudhary, and Andhra Pradesh CM N. Chandrababu Naidu.

Union ministers Rajnath Singh, Nitin Gadkari, and BJP president JP Nadda have also reached the venue. Gadkari landed earlier this morning, while Nadda left his hotel shortly before 9.30 am.

Ground-Level Preparations

Beyond the political spectacle, organisers have arranged stalls selling local favourites like jhalmuri and rasgulla. The VIP lunch menu includes aloo dum, black lentils, pulao, mixed vegetables, masala kulcha, baingan bhaja saag, aloo poshto, and gulab jamun for dessert.

A memorial has been erected at the ground for BJP workers killed in political violence in West Bengal over recent years. Party leaders have framed the swearing-in as a tribute to those deaths.

What Comes Next

BJP's Dilip Jaiswal told reporters earlier that the new government would work to fulfil the vision of a "new Bengal". Party leader Sankar Ghosh described the moment as time to meet the aspirations of the state's people.

Adhikari himself called the BJP's Bengal victory a "historic dawn" in a statement released Friday evening. Once sworn in, his immediate challenges will include cabinet formation and administrative transition in a state where the BJP previously had no governing experience.

The ceremony is expected to conclude by early afternoon.

BJP shatters Bengal glass ceiling with 207 seats; TMC ousted after 15-year rule

In a seismic shift that alters the landscape of Indian politics, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is set to form its first-ever government in West Bengal. Crossing the "final frontier" that had eluded the saffron party for decades, the BJP secured a thumping majority with 207 seats in the 293-member Assembly, effectively ending the 15-year tenure of Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress (TMC).

The TMC, which had dominated the state since 2011, saw its tally plummet to 80 seats as the "Saffron Wave" swept through both rural heartlands and urban centres. Election Commission (EC) data confirmed a historic voter turnout of 92.47%, reflecting the high stakes of a campaign that often blurred the lines between a state election and a national referendum.

A historic shift in Kolkata

The atmosphere at the BJP state headquarters in Kolkata turned electric on Monday afternoon as early leads solidified into an unassailable majority. Supporters were seen celebrating with ‘Jhalmuri’ and saffron gulal, marking a symbolic victory in the birthplace of the party's ideological patriarch, Syama Prasad Mookerjee.

For the BJP, this isn't just a state win; it is the culmination of a decade-long expansion strategy. "The people of Bengal have chosen the path of 'Asol Poribortan' (real change)," a senior party strategist noted, requesting anonymity. Initial reports from counting centres indicate that the BJP made significant inroads into traditional TMC bastions, particularly in North Bengal and the tribal belts of Jangal Mahal.

Women voters swing the tide

One of the most defining factors of this mandate appears to be the consolidation of the female electorate. Despite the TMC’s long-standing welfare schemes targeted at women, the BJP managed to pivot the narrative toward safety and central representation. Party insiders suggest that the push for women’s reservation in legislatures created a "silent wave" of support.

Internal BJP data indicates a nearly 5% shift in the women's vote share. With 3.33 crore women voters in the state, this demographic essentially functioned as the party’s "Vikas Mitras," looking beyond local doles toward broader security concerns and national integration.

The Adhikari impact in Bhabanipur

The political humiliation for the TMC was compounded by the performance of Suvendu Adhikari. The former TMC heavyweight, who once served as Mamata Banerjee’s lieutenant, proved to be her most formidable challenger. His victory in the high-profile Bhabanipur and Nandigram seats served as the focal point of the BJP’s aggressive ground campaign.

Adhikari’s ability to pull away organizational cadres from the TMC disrupted the ruling party's booth-level management. His "insider vs. outsider" counter-narrative successfully neutralized the TMC’s attempt to brand the BJP as a party foreign to Bengali culture.

Middle-class angst and job security

The BJP also successfully tapped into the simmering discontent among government employees and the youth. Promises to implement the Seventh Pay Commission within 45 days of forming the government resonated deeply with nearly 50 lakh voters connected to the state and central services.

"There was a sense of being left behind compared to other states," said Arpan Das, a job aspirant at a local counting booth. The BJP’s "Poribortan Yatra," led by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, had specifically promised to fill vacant government posts, a move that targeted the 20-30 age demographic which felt sidelined by the existing recruitment processes.

Security measures ensure "fearless" voting

Ground-level cues suggest that the massive deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) played a psychological role in the high turnout. With 500 companies of CAPF stationed across the state and another 200 guarding EVM strongrooms, voters in traditionally "sensitive" zones reportedly felt more secure heading to the booths.

The BJP campaign heavily leveraged public outrage over law-and-order incidents, including the RG Kar hospital tragedy. By framing these issues as a failure of the state machinery, the party turned the election into a mandate on public safety. The RSS's grassroots mobilization further ensured that the "fear factor," often associated with Bengal polls, was significantly diminished.

From Rajasthan 1990 to Bengal 2026

The victory in West Bengal marks a full circle for the BJP’s journey as a governing force. The party first tasted state power in Rajasthan in 1990 under Bhairon Singh Shekhawat. From that humble 85-seat win to becoming the world's largest political party with 11 crore members, the expansion into Bengal represents the final piece of the BJP’s pan-India puzzle.

As the EC prepares to hand over the final certificates, the focus now shifts to the leadership choice for the Chief Minister’s post. While several names are doing the rounds, the party is expected to move quickly to ensure a smooth transition of power in Kolkata.

Suvendu Adhikari’s PA Murdered in West Bengal: Police Recover Second Bike, Suspect Professional Hit

A fresh claim has surfaced in the killing of BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari’s personal assistant Chandranath Rath, with initial investigation pointing to a “planned hit” carried out by hired shooters on Wednesday night. Police have since recovered a second motorcycle believed to have been used in the attack.

The 42-year-old was shot multiple times around 10:30 pm while returning home from Kolkata to Madhyamgram. Three suspects have been detained for questioning, though no formal arrests have been made yet.

Second Bike Recovered Near Rail Gate

The additional motorcycle was found late Thursday night near the No. 11 rail gate area in Barasat. According to officials familiar with the investigation, the bike had reportedly been stolen earlier from the Dumdum neighbourhood. Multiple police teams are now working to trace the sequence of movement before and after the shooting.

A Pattern of Loss for the BJP Leader

This is not the first time Suvendu Adhikari has lost someone from his inner circle. Over the past 13 years, three close aides have died under circumstances that have raised questions.

In 2013, when Suvendu was still with the Trinamool Congress, his private assistant Pradeep Jha passed away. Investigators then termed it a natural death. Five years later, in 2018, his personal security officer Subhrata Chakraborty was found dead in what police ruled a suicide. Then in 2021, another personal assistant, Pulak Lahiri, also died in unusual circumstances.

MLA Was on Call When Shots Were Fired

A striking detail has emerged from the night of the murder. BJP MLA Shankar Ghosh has claimed that he was speaking to Chandranath on the phone when the attack happened.

“We were discussing the upcoming swearing-in ceremony. Suddenly, I heard gunshots over the phone, followed by someone groaning in pain. The call got disconnected,” Ghosh told reporters. He said he tried calling back repeatedly but there was no response. When someone finally answered, an unknown person informed him that Chandranath had been shot dead.

A 90-Minute Timeline of the Attack

Around 9 pm, Chandranath left Kolkata in a Scorpio SUV, seated beside the driver. At approximately 9:58 pm, CCTV cameras in Madhyamgram captured the vehicle passing through. Shortly after, another car and two motorcycles carrying three individuals were seen following it.

By 10:30 pm, near Doharia Junction, the car overtook the Scorpio and stopped in front of it, forcing the driver to halt. Before anyone could react, bike-borne attackers approached from the left and fired between six to ten rounds. Two bullets hit Chandranath in the chest, one in the abdomen.

The assailants then abandoned the car at the spot and fled on motorcycles using two separate routes. Police later found the car’s registration number was fake, and the chassis number had been tampered with.

Glock 47X Pistol Used in Killing

Officials have confirmed that the attackers used a Glock 47X pistol, a modern weapon not typically seen in ordinary criminal cases. “The manner of the attack suggests it was executed by professional shooters,” a senior police officer said on condition of anonymity.

From Air Force to Politics

Chandranath was not a career politician from the start. He served as an Air Force officer before taking voluntary retirement, then worked in the corporate sector for some time. He had been associated with Suvendu Adhikari since his Trinamool Congress days and was considered one of his most trusted aides. He officially joined Suvendu’s team in 2019 and later handled his election campaign in Bhabanipur — the same seat where Suvendu defeated Mamata Banerjee by around 15,000 votes.

Those who knew him describe Chandranath as calm and low-profile, someone who stayed away from the limelight despite years of close association with a high-profile leader.

Investigations remain ongoing. Police have not ruled out political motives.

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. 

Chandranath Rath, the personal assistant to Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, was shot dead late Wednesday night on National Highway 12 near Madhyamgram in North 24 Parganas district. Police said the attackers had been tracking his movements for at least a week before intercepting his vehicle and firing at close range.

The incident occurred around 11:30 pm when Rath was travelling in a Scorpio towards Siliguri. Near the Doharia area on Jessore Road, bike-borne assailants surrounded the vehicle and opened fire. The driver and two others were also injured.

Eight to fifteen rounds

Initial reports suggested four rounds were fired. But police later revised the count to 8-10 rounds. Hospital sources, however, told reporters that post-mortem examination suggested up to 15-16 bullet injuries. A three-member medical team led by Dr Kallol Ray has been constituted for the autopsy.

Rath sustained gunshot wounds to his chest and head. He was declared brought dead at a nearby hospital.

Movement tracked for a week

Police analysis of CCTV footage from key roads revealed the attackers had monitored Rath’s daily routine meticulously — the routes he took, the vehicle he used, and even the seat he occupied inside the car.

“The assailants knew exactly when and where to intercept him,” an official familiar with the probe said.

Kolkata Police have so far collected footage from eight CCTV cameras. State DGP Siddhinath Gupta is personally reviewing the visuals. A Special Investigation Team is being formed.

Political fallout

BJP workers staged a blockade on NH-12 overnight, demanding an encounter of the attackers. Party spokesperson Keya Ghosh appealed for calm but alleged that back-office BJP workers were being deliberately targeted. “The BJP envisions a government of change, not revenge,” she said.

BJP leader Rakesh Singh went further, demanding the arrest of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and party leader Abhishek Banerjee. Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to arrive in Kolkata later today.

TMC demands court-monitored CBI probe

In an unexpected move, the Trinamool Congress condemned the killing and demanded a CBI inquiry under court supervision. “We demand strict action. The killing of other BJP and TMC workers should also be investigated,” the party said in a statement.

Mother alleges political motive

Hasirani Rath, the victim’s mother, demanded life imprisonment for the killers. “I do not want them hanged, I want life imprisonment,” she said, alleging her son was targeted for political reasons linked to Adhikari’s electoral victory over Banerjee.

Separate shooting same night

About an hour after Rath’s killing, a BJP worker named Rohit Roy was shot and critically injured in Basirhat district. Over the last two days, at least five political workers — two from the BJP and three from the TMC — have reportedly been killed in the state.

A special session of the West Bengal Legislative Assembly has been called for May 25.

Tempers ran high in Howrah  when Suvendu Adhikari, BJP leader and Leader of Opposition, clashed with TMC supporters during his roadshow through the Bali constituency. What started as a normal campaign rally quickly turned chaotic. As Adhikari’s convoy rolled in, TMC workers started chanting “Jai Bangla” and other slogans, which clearly set him off.

Adhikari didn’t hold back. He stormed over to confront the crowd directly, shouting “chor, chor” (thief, thief) right at the TMC group. It got tense fast, and security and local police had to step in to keep things from spiraling into a physical fight.

This isn’t a one-off. The Howrah incident is just the latest flashpoint in a series of face-offs between BJP and TMC, as West Bengal’s elections inch closer to their final stages. TMC supporters say the BJP is stirring up trouble among locals, while BJP leaders insist their events are being deliberately disrupted by “TMC goons.”

Adhikari has been in the thick of things lately, contesting big seats like Bhabanipur and trying to hold onto his stronghold in Nandigram. He’s become a regular target for TMC protests, and this showdown in Howrah just adds to the tense, almost combative political atmosphere on the ground in West Bengal right now.Suvendu Adhikari’s temper flared up Wednesday evening during a roadshow in Howrah’s Bali constituency, after TMC supporters allegedly disrupted his convoy.

It all started out like a regular political event — nothing too dramatic. But things got heated fast. As Adhikari’s convoy rolled through the area, TMC workers reportedly yelled out “Jai Bangla” and other slogans. That’s when Adhikari snapped. He didn’t just fire back verbally, he marched right up and shouted “chor, chor” (“thief, thief”) at the crowd. People could see he was fuming. Security and police had to step in so things didn’t get physical.

This whole scene is just another flashpoint between BJP and TMC, as the West Bengal elections near their final stages. TMC folks said the BJP was riling up the locals, while BJP leaders claimed their events kept getting blocked by “TMC goons.”

Adhikari’s no stranger to these run-ins. He’s campaigning hard, contesting in high-profile seats like Bhabanipur and holding onto Nandigram, and TMC protests seem to follow him everywhere. This Howrah face-off just adds to the tense, almost “war-like” atmosphere that’s taken over West Bengal politics lately.

Amit Shah's Core Team Scripts Historic BJP Sweep in Bengal  

Strategic day-night campaign and RSS groundwork deliver 206-seat majority, ending TMC's 15-year rule

In a landmark shift in West Bengal's political landscape, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has secured a decisive victory in the 2026 Assembly elections, winning around 206 seats and crossing the two-thirds majority mark. The triumph ends the Trinamool Congress's (TMC) 15-year dominance under Mamata Banerjee and marks the first time a non-Left, right-of-centre party forms the government in the state.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah emerged as the central architect of this transformation. Sources familiar with the campaign said Shah spent over 15 days in the state, turning the election into a meticulously planned mission. By day, he addressed rallies and roadshows; by night, he pored over seat-specific data with a tight-knit team.

Shah's Hands-On Micro-Management

Party insiders describe Shah's approach as a blend of high-energy public outreach and granular booth-level oversight. He is believed to have conducted more than 50 rallies and roadshows across key regions. A five-member core team of central leaders worked alongside him, focusing on real-time feedback, candidate selection, and resource allocation.

This dual strategy — visible momentum on the ground paired with behind-the-scenes seat-by-seat reviews — proved effective in converting long-standing discontent into votes. Issues like the teachers' recruitment scam, the RG Kar hospital incident, and allegations of violence in areas such as Sandeshkhali resonated strongly, particularly among women and the urban middle class.

RSS: The Quiet Force Behind the Surge

Complementing the BJP's high-profile campaign was nearly 15 years of sustained groundwork by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). What began with around 530 shakhas in 2011 has grown to over 2,500 branches today, with 583 added in the past year alone.

Ahead of polling, the organisation facilitated more than one lakh small meetings, focusing on hyper-local outreach rather than large public events. Volunteers emphasised trust-building, especially in sensitive pockets.

Key elements of the Sangh's approach included:

- Providing support to victims of post-2021 violence through financial aid, legal help, and direct access to leadership.  

- Encouraging women in areas like Sandeshkhali to speak out via sustained dialogue.  

- Cultural integration efforts linking local icons such as Swami Vivekananda and Subhas Chandra Bose with broader narratives of development and identity.  

- Booth-level confidence-building to ensure voters could cast ballots without fear.  

- Connecting everyday governance failures to larger concerns of safety and future opportunities.

This invisible hand helped expand the BJP's reach into rural, semi-urban, and even some traditional TMC strongholds.

Ground Realities and Voter Sentiment

Counting trends on May 4-5 showed the BJP making deep inroads, including in several Muslim-majority areas, though the shift was more pronounced among other demographics. High voter turnout in phases held on April 23 and 29 reflected widespread desire for change after years of reported political violence and corruption scandals.

Local celebrations erupted in BJP-leaning neighbourhoods across Kolkata and districts like North and South 24 Parganas, Purba Bardhaman, and parts of North Bengal. Many residents spoke of a sense of relief and expectation for improved law and order and development.

TMC leaders, including Mamata Banerjee who retained her seat, alleged irregularities, but the Election Commission is yet to comment formally on such claims.

What Lies Ahead

With results clear, attention now shifts to government formation. Amit Shah has been named the BJP's central observer for West Bengal to facilitate the election of the legislative party leader. The swearing-in is expected around May 9.

Senior leaders like Suvendu Adhikari, currently Leader of Opposition, along with others such as Dilip Ghosh and emerging faces, are among those discussed for key roles. The party has so far avoided projecting a single chief ministerial candidate during the campaign.

The victory is being seen as a significant boost for the BJP nationally, demonstrating its ability to crack entrenched regional strongholds through persistent organisation and strategic leadership. For West Bengal, it signals the start of a new political chapter after a decade and a half of TMC rule.

How the new dispensation translates campaign promises into governance — particularly on women’s safety, employment, and curbing political violence — will define the coming months. For now, the focus remains on the remarkable journey that brought the BJP from 77 seats in 2021 to a commanding majority in 2026. 

BJP Secures Historic Win in West Bengal Assembly Polls

West Bengal Election 2026 Results: BJP storms to power with 206 seats, ending TMC's 15-year rule as Mamata Banerjee loses Bhabanipur to Suvendu Adhikari.

In a landmark shift for Bengal politics, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has swept the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, winning 206 seats and securing a clear majority to form the state government for the first time. The Trinamool Congress (TMC), which had ruled since 2011, was reduced to just 81 seats, losing 134 from its 2021 tally. Congress managed only two seats, with the remaining going to smaller parties and independents.

Results for 293 seats were declared by late evening, confirming the BJP's decisive victory. Party workers burst into celebrations across Kolkata, Salt Lake, and other districts, distributing sweets, jhalmuri, and even biryani in some places. Visuals showed supporters chanting slogans and gathering at the BJP headquarters amid tight security.

Suvendu Adhikari's Double Triumph Over Mamata

In one of the most watched contests, BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari defeated Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in Bhabanipur by a margin of 15,114 votes. This marks his second straight victory over her, having earlier defeated her from Nandigram in 2021. Adhikari also won Nandigram comfortably. After the result, he thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and party workers, calling it a “victory of Bengal and Modi.” He described Banerjee’s defeat as her “political retirement.”

Banerjee, who reached the counting centre in Bhabanipur amid some controversy over mobile phone use, later alleged irregularities and vowed to fight back. Clashes were reported outside counting centres early in the day, including at Sakhawat Memorial School.

Vote Share Surge and Regional Trends

According to Election Commission trends, the BJP’s vote share rose by nearly 6 percentage points to around 45%. The party dominated in several regions, including Jhargram — where PM Modi had stopped for jhalmuri during campaigning — winning all four seats there. Notable wins included victories in areas like Asansol, Baharampur (where BJP defeated senior Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury), and Panihati.

Some violence and vandalism were reported as results poured in. TMC offices in Barasat, South Kolkata, Howrah, and Asansol were allegedly attacked, with furniture damaged and flags removed in certain incidents. Police said cases were being registered. Isolated clashes between supporters also occurred in Cooch Behar and other pockets, prompting lathi-charges in some places.

Reactions from National Leaders

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the result as historic, saying the “lotus has bloomed from Gangotri to Gangasagar.” He wore a dhoti-kurta in Bengali style while addressing the victory. BJP president and other leaders credited the people’s mandate and strong organisational work.

Opposition voices raised concerns. Congress leader Kapil Sibal and Rahul Gandhi alleged “election theft” and irregularities involving the Election Commission and central forces. TMC leaders echoed claims of irregularities, though the BJP dismissed them as excuses for defeat.

Other States: Mixed Outcomes

While the focus remained on Bengal, other states saw varied results. In Assam, the BJP strengthened its hold with 82 seats out of 126. The Congress-led UDF returned to power in Kerala with 102 seats in the 140-member Assembly. In Puducherry, the All India N.R. Congress emerged as the largest party. Actor-turned-politician Joseph Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) became the single largest party in Tamil Nadu with 107 seats.

What Lies Ahead for Bengal

The BJP’s win ends TMC’s uninterrupted 15-year rule marked by welfare schemes like Lakshmir Bhandar but also dogged by allegations of corruption and anti-incumbency. High voter turnout of over 92% — the highest in the state’s history — reflected intense public engagement. Issues like voter list revisions, illegal immigration, and women’s schemes played key roles in shaping the verdict.

As the dust settles, attention turns to government formation, likely to be led by senior BJP leaders in the state. Suvendu Adhikari is seen as a strong contender for a key role. The new government will face the challenge of maintaining law and order amid reported post-poll tensions and delivering on promises made during a fiercely contested campaign.

For now, Bengal wakes up to a new political reality after a long wait for change.