The Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) West Bengal unit on Tuesday dismissed a viral social media poster claiming that people had been invited to attend the oath-taking ceremony of the party’s proposed government in the state. The poster, allegedly linked to senior BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari, quickly circulated online amid intense political discussions following the Assembly election results.
Taking to its official social media handle, the BJP West Bengal unit clarified that the poster was fake and urged people not to fall for misinformation. “This news is completely false. Do not be misled by false propaganda. Stay alert and stay away from rumours”, the post read.
BJP eyes historic government formation in Bengal
The fake poster row surfaced at a time when the BJP is preparing for what could become its first government in West Bengal after securing a major electoral victory.
BJP state president Samik Bhattacharya confirmed that the oath ceremony of the new chief minister is scheduled for May 9, coinciding with Rabindra Jayanti. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier hinted at the timeline during his campaign rally in Barrackpore, expressing confidence that he would return to Bengal after the election results for the swearing-in event.
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Following the victory, Modi also invoked the ideals of Rabindranath Tagore while addressing party workers, referring to a Bengal “where the mind is without fear and the head is held high.”
Who will be Bengal’s next Chief Minister?
As preparations for government formation gather pace, attention has shifted to the BJP’s chief ministerial choice. Suvendu Adhikari is being viewed as one of the frontrunners after defeating Mamata Banerjee in Bhabanipur by 15,105 votes while also retaining Nandigram.
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Several other senior BJP leaders are also being discussed within party circles. These include Agnimitra Paul, Swapan Dasgupta, Dilip Ghosh and Sukanta Majumder.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has reportedly been appointed as the BJP’s central observer for West Bengal. The party is expected to hold a meeting of newly elected MLAs in Kolkata soon, where discussions around leadership and cabinet formation are likely to take place. Sources also indicate that the BJP may consider appointing deputy chief ministers alongside the new CM as it prepares to form its maiden government in the state.
