Veteran journalist, author and Padma Bhushan awardee Swapan Dasgupta has entered the West Bengal cabinet after winning the Rasbehari Assembly seat.
June 1, 2026: As part of the West Bengal cabinet expansion, BJP leader Swapan Dasgupta was sworn in as a minister in the government led by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. The newly expanded Council of Ministers includes 35 BJP legislators, comprising 13 Cabinet Ministers, three Ministers of State (Independent Charge), and 19 Ministers of State.
Swapan Dasgupta is a prominent journalist, author, and public intellectual who spent decades shaping political and public discourse in India before entering active politics. Born on October 3, 1955, into a distinguished Bengali Baidya family, he built a successful career in journalism, working with leading publications such as The Statesman, The Daily Telegraph, The Times of India, The Indian Express, and India Today.
Known for his insightful political analysis and commentary, Dasgupta became one of India’s most recognized public commentators. In 2015, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan for his contributions to literature, education, and public discourse. His induction into the West Bengal cabinet marks a significant transition from journalism and public policy to executive governance.