Is Suvendu Adhikari the CM face for Bengal BJP ahead of 2026 polls?
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Synopsis
West Bengal BJP president Samik Bhattacharya hints at Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari potentially being the chief ministerial candidate for the upcoming Assembly elections. With political dynamics shifting, this revelation is sure to spark conversations in the state's corridors of power.
Key Takeaways
- Suvendu Adhikari may be the chief ministerial face for the BJP in 2026.
- Bhattacharya's comments signal a strategic shift in the party.
- The new state Cabinet is expected to be formed by June 2024.
- The BJP usually avoids face-centric politics.
- Adhikari represents a movement against police atrocities.
Kolkata, Dec 17 (NationPress) The president of the West Bengal unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Samik Bhattacharya, hinted on Wednesday at the possibility of presenting Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of the Opposition in the state Assembly, as the chief ministerial candidate for the upcoming Assembly elections next year.
During a press conference where Adhikari was present, Bhattacharya, who is recognized for his sharp wit and humor, refrained from making a definitive statement.
"With the T20 Cricket World Cup slated for next year, there will be further coordination meetings with the Kolkata Police in June. You will see Suvendu Adhikari participating in that meeting," Bhattacharya remarked.
By June, a new state Cabinet is anticipated to be established following the election processes, including results declaration and the oath-taking ceremony.
When questioned about whether Adhikari would indeed be the chief ministerial face for the West Bengal Assembly polls, Bhattacharya did not provide a straightforward answer.
"The BJP typically does not engage in face-centric politics. However, I can assure you that in the upcoming state Cabinet, the current Leader of the Opposition is certain to hold a prominent position," Bhattacharya stated.
He also gave a nuanced response when asked about the basis for his assertion that Adhikari would represent the state government in the police coordination meeting.
"He is widely recognized as the face of the movement against police excesses under the current regime. The police are familiar with him, and he knows them well. Hence, I stand by my claim. It is evident that he will be at the coordination meeting next year," Bhattacharya added.
In recent Assembly elections across various states, the BJP has often refrained from presenting a chief ministerial candidate, though there have been exceptions. In the 2021 West Bengal Assembly elections, no such candidate was projected.
Thus, Bhattacharya's comments are likely to generate significant discussions within the state's political circles.
Point of View
The ongoing discussions surrounding Suvendu Adhikari's potential candidacy reflect the BJP's strategic positioning ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections. While Bhattacharya's comments may seem subtle, they indicate a possible shift in the party's approach towards leadership and electoral strategy, warranting close attention from political analysts and the public alike.
NationPress
17/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Suvendu Adhikari?
Suvendu Adhikari is the Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly and a prominent figure in the BJP's state unit.
What did Samik Bhattacharya hint at regarding Adhikari?
Samik Bhattacharya hinted that Suvendu Adhikari could be projected as the chief ministerial face for the upcoming Assembly elections in West Bengal.
When are the West Bengal Assembly elections scheduled?
The West Bengal Assembly elections are scheduled for next year.
What is the significance of the police coordination meeting?
The police coordination meeting is significant as it indicates Adhikari's involvement in addressing police-related issues in the state.
Has the BJP previously projected a chief ministerial face?
In recent elections, the BJP has often refrained from projecting a chief ministerial face, although exceptions exist.
