Suvendu Adhikari likely Bengal CM; BJP plans two Deputy CMs

West Bengal politics: After a fiercely contested election, the BJP is on the brink of forming its first government in West Bengal, with Suvendu Adhikari emerging as the frontrunner for the chief minister’s post. The senior BJP leader, who played a crucial role in the party’s electoral surge, is widely expected to take charge in the coming days.

According to party insiders, discussions are underway to appoint two deputy chief ministers to support the new leadership. This would mark a significant shift in the state’s political structure, as West Bengal has not had a deputy chief minister for nearly two decades. The last to hold the position was the late CPM leader Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee during the Jyoti Basu era.

Sources indicate that the BJP leadership is considering a balanced approach while finalising the deputy chief ministers. One of the posts is likely to be given to a woman leader, with Agnimitra Paul, who secured victory from Asansol Dakshin, emerging as a strong contender.

For the second deputy chief minister’s role, the party may look towards north Bengal representation. Former Union minister Nisith Pramanik is being seen as a prominent name in this regard, although no official confirmation has been made so far. There is also speculation that a leader from the tribal community could be considered to ensure broader representation.

Meanwhile, a crucial meeting of BJP’s newly elected MLAs is scheduled for this evening, where the leader of the legislative party will be formally chosen, a decision that will effectively seal the chief minister’s post. The swearing-in ceremony is expected to take place soon after, with the final composition of the cabinet likely to be revealed alongside.

With the BJP poised to take charge, all eyes are now on how the party structures its leadership team in a state that has witnessed a historic political shift.