Bengalks Biggest Group Project: 35 New Ministers Join the Cabinet

Kolkata, June 1, 2026: West Bengal marked a historic political milestone as Governor R.N. Ravi administered the oath of office to 35 newly elected MLAs, expanding the State's first-ever BJP-led Council of Ministers under Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. The swearing-in ceremony was held at Lok Bhavan in Kolkata and was attended by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, members of the existing Cabinet, senior government officials, and invited dignitaries. The event formally marked the first major expansion of the new government since assuming office after the Assembly elections. Among the newly inducted ministers, 13 BJP MLAs took oath as Cabinet Ministers, three were sworn in as Ministers of State (Independent Charge), and 19 legislators were inducted as Ministers of State. Following the expansion, the strength of the Chief Minister's Council of Ministers increased to 41. The expanded Council of Ministers is expected to support the government's administrative responsibilities by distributing key portfolios across various departments. The induction of additional ministers comes as the new administration begins implementing its governance agenda during its first term in office. The BJP formed the government in West Bengal after securing a landmark victory in the 2026 Assembly elections, marking the first time the party has led the State government. The cabinet expansion is viewed as an important organizational step in establishing the government's administrative structure and preparing departments for policy implementation in the coming months. The oath-taking ceremony concluded with the formal induction of all 35 ministers, signaling the start of the expanded Council of Ministers' responsibilities. The government is expected to announce portfolio allocations and departmental responsibilities following the completion of the cabinet expansion.