Political activity intensified in West Bengal on Friday as Amit Shah reached Kolkata ahead of a crucial BJP legislative party meeting expected to decide the next Chief Minister of the state following the party’s historic election victory.
The development came shortly after R. N. Ravi formally dissolved the outgoing West Bengal Legislative Assembly after completion of its term, clearing the way for the formation of a new government.
Suvendu Adhikari Seen As Top Choice For CM Post
Among the names being discussed within the BJP, Suvendu Adhikari is widely viewed as the strongest contender for the Chief Minister’s post.
Adhikari played a central role in the BJP’s aggressive election campaign and further strengthened his position after defeating Mamata Banerjee from the high-profile Bhabanipur constituency.
Political observers also pointed to Shah publicly applauding Adhikari shortly after arriving in Kolkata, interpreting the gesture as a possible indication of the party leadership’s preference.
Once a close aide of Mamata Banerjee during the Trinamool Congress’s rise to power in 2011, Adhikari later shifted to the BJP ahead of the 2021 Assembly elections in a move that dramatically changed Bengal politics.
During the recent campaign, Adhikari repeatedly described himself as part of both Bengal’s earlier “poribartan” and what he called the “real change” now taking place in the state.
Other BJP Leaders Also In Race
While Adhikari remains the frontrunner, several other BJP leaders are also being discussed for the top post.
These include Dilip Ghosh, Samik Bhattacharya, Agnimitra Paul and Roopa Ganguly.
The BJP legislative party meeting scheduled later in the day is expected to formally elect the party’s legislative leader, who will then stake claim to form the government.
Shah Visits Dakshineswar Temple
Soon after landing in Kolkata, Amit Shah visited Dakshineswar Kali Temple to offer prayers.
He was accompanied by Suvendu Adhikari and Samik Bhattacharya during the visit.
Senior BJP leaders, including Dilip Ghosh, Rahul Sinha and Sukanta Majumdar, were also present at the airport to receive Shah.
Preparations Underway For Swearing-In Ceremony
Preparations are already in progress at Brigade Parade Ground for the swearing-in ceremony expected to take place on Saturday morning.
Narendra Modi, several Union ministers and chief ministers from NDA-ruled states are expected to attend the event.
