The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will establish its first government in West Bengal after securing a decisive victory in the 2026 Assembly elections.
The BJP legislative party is expected to meet soon to elect its leader, who will go on to form the new government.
The swearing-in ceremony is likely to be held on May 9, coinciding with the birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore.
The party is also considering a governance structure that includes both a chief minister and deputy chief minister, a model followed in several BJP-ruled states to strengthen administration and ensure broader regional representation.
Suvendu Adhikari has emerged as the strongest contender for the chief minister’s post.
His high-profile victory against Mamata Banerjee brought him national prominence, with party leaders crediting him for significantly expanding the BJP’s presence across the state. Sources indicated he is likely to be elected leader of the BJP legislative party, placing him in a commanding position for the top post.
Agnimitra Paul is also being seen as a key contender. A BJP MLA and prominent face of the party’s women’s wing, she is known for her grassroots outreach, organisational strength and ability to connect with diverse sections of society.
Roopa Ganguly, a former Rajya Sabha MP with a strong public profile in media and entertainment, is also in the race. Her administrative experience and public connect add to her credentials.
Other leaders, including former BJP national vice president Dilip Ghosh and Samik Bhattacharya, are also being discussed as potential contenders in the leadership race.
