The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is set to take a major decision on Friday as its legislature party meets in Kolkata to choose the next Chief Minister of West Bengal, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah expected to play a key role in final discussions.

Senior leader Suvendu Adhikari has emerged as the frontrunner, but the final announcement is still awaited, making the question of “who will be Bengal CM” the centre of political attention.

The high-stakes meeting comes after the BJP’s reported historic victory in the West Bengal assembly elections, which ended the 15-year rule of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and delivered a major setback to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The decision on the next Chief Minister is expected later today after consultations with newly elected MLAs.

Suvendu Adhikari the frontrunner for Bengal Chief Minister

Suvendu Adhikari has emerged as the leading name for the top post after a strong electoral performance, including wins in politically sensitive constituencies. His victories in Nandigram and Bhabanipur have significantly strengthened his position within the party.

Adhikari, once a close aide of Mamata Banerjee and a key organiser in the TMC’s rural expansion, joined the BJP in 2020 and quickly rose as one of its most prominent leaders in West Bengal politics.

Party insiders say his consistent electoral performance, organisational influence, and direct challenge to the TMC leadership have made him a strong contender for the Chief Minister’s post.

Two Deputy CM posts in Bengal: Reports

West Bengal may see a major political and administrative reshuffle in the new cabinet, with sources indicating that the government is considering appointing two Deputy Chief Ministers. If implemented, it would mark a significant shift in the state’s political structure, as Bengal has not had a deputy chief minister in nearly two decades. Late CPM veteran Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee was the last leader to hold the post during the government led by Jyoti Basu.

According to sources, one of the deputy chief minister positions is likely to go to a woman leader. BJP MLA Agnimitra Paul, who won from Asansol Dakshin in the recent election, is reportedly among the frontrunners for the role and could become West Bengal’s first woman Deputy Chief Minister

What happens in today’s BJP legislative party meeting in Kolkata?

The BJP legislature party meeting is scheduled to begin at 4 pm in Kolkata. Amit Shah is expected to hold preliminary discussions with senior leaders before formally addressing the newly elected MLAs.

Sources indicate that the party may finalise its Chief Minister pick during this meeting, though the final decision will rest with the central leadership.

Alongside Adhikari, several other names are reportedly under consideration, including Agnimitra Paul, Roopa Ganguly, state BJP president Samik Bhattacharya, and former Rajya Sabha MP Swapan Dasgupta.

While Adhikari is seen as the frontrunner, party leaders have maintained that no final decision has been officially announced yet.

When will West Bengal’s new BJP government take oath?

The swearing-in ceremony of the newly elected BJP government is scheduled for May 9 at Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Amit Shah, BJP national president Nitin Nabin, and Chief Ministers from NDA-ruled states are expected to attend the event.

With PTI inputs