Agnimitra Paul, a newly sworn-in minister of West Bengal, has stated that women voters played an essential part in the electoral success of her party. She expressed her gratitude to the leadership of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), including Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, for their trust in her capabilities and responsibilities within the new government.

During an interview, Paul described receiving a late-night invitation from Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari to attend her swearing-in ceremony, where she was asked to take the oath in Bengali. She mentioned feeling nervous as it was her first experience participating in such a formal occasion, attended by many dignitaries.

Reflecting on the election results, Paul noted that she has yet to fully comprehend their victory. She commented on the significance of their new location, Nabanna, and how it represented a shift from past experiences where approaching the site led to arrests. Her statement indicated a strong sense of change in governance.

Criticism of Former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee

Agnimitra Paul addressed the political approach of her predecessor, Mamata Banerjee, alleging that threats had been issued within the assembly. While she recognised Banerjee’s extensive political background, Paul expressed concern over the manner in which opposition members had been treated. She emphasised the need for better conduct within the assembly, deeming it inappropriate for someone in Banerjee’s position.

Paul affirmed her commitment to fulfil the responsibilities assigned to her, stating that she would work tirelessly to improve the condition of West Bengal. She symbolicised her intent by comparing her past profession as a designer beautifying women to her new role of beautifying Bengal.

The remarks came in the wake of Suvendu Adhikari’s inauguration as the ninth Chief Minister of West Bengal, signalling the conclusion of the Trinamool Congress’s 15-year governance in the state. Paul joined a group of five BJP leaders who were also sworn in as ministers in the new cabinet.

Swearing-In Ceremony Attended by Prominent Leaders

The swearing-in ceremony took place in Kolkata and was attended by several high-profile figures, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and BJP national president JP Nadda. Chief Ministers from various states, such as Manik Saha of Tripura, Himanta Biswa Sarma from Assam, and Pushkar Singh Dhami of Uttarakhand, were also in attendance.

Suvendu Adhikari was administered the oath by Governor RN Ravi at this significant event. The BJP marked a substantial victory in the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections, securing 207 seats, which led to the TMC’s downfall, resulting in the party obtaining only 80 seats.

Notably, Adhikari’s victory included a decisive win over former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in the Bhabanipur constituency, where he led by over 15,000 votes. Furthermore, he retained his position in the Nandigram Assembly seat, further solidifying the BJP’s new influence in the state.

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