Kolkata: Suvendu Adhikari has emerged as the leading contender for the post of Chief Minister in West Bengal following the Bharatiya Janata Party’s sweeping victory in the 2026 Assembly elections, sources indicated.
The Bharatiya Janata Party is set to hold a crucial Legislature Party meeting in Kolkata on May 8, where the final decision on government formation and leadership will be taken.
Key Meeting To Decide Leadership
At the meeting, Adhikari is expected to be elected leader of the BJP Legislature Party, a key step before staking claim to form the government.
According to sources, BJP’s West Bengal unit chief Samik Bhattacharya will propose his name, while Union Home Minister Amit Shah is likely to formally announce the decision.
From Protégé To Political Rival
Adhikari’s rise has been one of the defining stories of this election. Once considered a close aide of Mamata Banerjee, he later switched sides and became one of her fiercest political opponents.
He first gained national attention after defeating Banerjee in the high-profile Nandigram contest, a symbolic constituency that played a key role in her political journey.
Repeat Victory Strengthens Claim
In the 2026 elections, Adhikari not only repeated his victory over Banerjee but also expanded his winning margin, further cementing his position as the BJP’s strongest face in the state.
He also wrested control of Bhabanipur, a long-time stronghold of Banerjee, marking a significant political shift in West Bengal.
BJP Eyes Government Formation
With the BJP securing a decisive mandate, the focus has now shifted to leadership selection and government formation. If chosen, Adhikari’s elevation will mark a historic moment, ending decades of dominance by rival political forces in the state.
The upcoming Legislature Party meeting is expected to formalise the decision and pave the way for the swearing-in of the new government.