BJP Govt to Take Oath in West Bengal on May 9, Samik Bhattacharya Says

Kolkata: The newly elected Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government in West Bengal will be sworn in on May 9 (Saturday), coinciding with the birth anniversary of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, West Bengal Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Samik Bhattacharya said on Tuesday.

“The Chief Minister announced yesterday that this government will be sworn in on 25 Baisakh, which is Rabindranath Tagore’s birthday,” Bhattacharya told ANI, calling it a historic moment for the state. he said.

Addressing concerns over post-election incidents, he condemned reports of vandalism involving BJP flags and warned of strict action. “Some minor incidents have come to light where vandalism was done… We condemn this. If anyone does this, we will be forced to expel them from the party,” he said, adding that the administration must also ensure law and order.

Bhattacharya urged party workers to celebrate responsibly. “Celebrate the victory, but do not do anything to demoralize anyone. Our responsibility is as great as our victory,” he said.

Underlining the extent of support, he noted that voters in the regions and even supporters abroad contributed to the party’s success. “From Toronto to Silicon Valley… people came and supported. Immigrant workers spent money out of their own pockets to vote. It was a sense of change,” he said.

Describing his tenure as a turning point, Bhattacharya said the BJP’s goal went beyond regime change. “Our aim was not just to change a government or the Prime Minister, but also to change the political culture and restore social pluralism,” he added, explaining the formation of a “double-engine government” aligned with the Centre.

He also rejected criticism from opposition leaders, including allegations of “immoral victory”. “Let them say what they want. If it gives them peace of mind, we have no objection to it,” he said.

Regarding the election results, Bhattacharya said Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s defeat in Bhabanipur reflects the loss of public confidence. BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari defeated Banerjee by over 15,000 votes, marking a symbolic shift in the state’s political landscape.

The BJP scored a thumping victory in the 2026 Assembly elections, winning over 200 seats and ending the dominance of the Trinamool Congress, which had fallen to around 80 seats.