Kolkata/Chennai: A major shift is underway in Indian politics, with the BJP poised to form the government in West Bengal for the first time, ending decades of waiting. The swearing-in ceremony, scheduled for May 9th, the auspicious occasion of Rabindranath Tagore’s birth anniversary, will mark not only a change of power but also the union of Bengal’s culture and a new political ideology. The BJP, which secured a historic victory in the state’s 207 seats, has made elaborate preparations for the celebration, which will be attended by Prime Minister Modi and several NDA stalwarts.
The BJP has put all its efforts into selecting the new Chief Minister of West Bengal, as evidenced by the fact that Home Minister Amit Shah has been appointed as the chief central observer. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi will be present with him as a co-observer. Suvendu Adhikari, who has proven his political acumen by defeating Mamata Banerjee for the second consecutive time, is leading the race for the Chief Minister’s post. His name is highly likely to be finalized after the legislative party meeting scheduled for Thursday.
The wave of power change is also clearly visible in Tamil Nadu in South India, where Tamilga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) leader Vijay is set to be sworn in as Chief Minister on May 7. Despite being just 10 seats short of the majority mark, Vijay has staked his claim to the Governor. Meanwhile, Congress’s indication of supporting Vijay has changed the political equations in the state. This possible move by Congress has angered its old ally DMK, which is calling it a “betrayal.” MK Stalin has submitted his resignation, officially beginning a new political era in the state.
The BJP is celebrating a hat-trick in Assam, where Himanta Biswa Sarma is almost certain to become Chief Minister again. A new government will be formed here after May 10th, with JP Nadda appointed as its observer. Meanwhile, speculation is rife about cabinet expansion in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh to strengthen administrative control and maintain political balance. In Bihar, new ministers are scheduled to be sworn in on May 7th, while in Madhya Pradesh, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav is preparing to fill vacant positions after reviewing the ministers’ report cards.
