Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s visit to Kolkata on Friday has intensified political speculation, with the BJP expected to finalise its Chief Ministerial candidate for West Bengal by the end of the day. After offering prayers at Dakshineswar Temple, Shah is set to hold a crucial meeting with newly elected BJP MLAs, where the leadership decision is likely to be sealed.
Shah arrived at Kolkata Airport shortly after 11 am and was received by senior state BJP leaders, including Samik Bhattacharya, Sukanta Majumdar, and Suvendu Adhikari. He then proceeded directly to Dakshineswar Temple before heading to a hotel in New Town.
The key meeting is scheduled at the Biswa Bangla Convention Centre, where Shah will interact with BJP’s winning candidates. According to party sources, the legislative party leader—who will also become the Chief Minister—is expected to be chosen during this meeting.
Shah has been appointed as the central observer for the selection process, assisted by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. This follows the BJP’s established practice of sending central observers to oversee the election of the legislative party leader after poll results are declared.
With the BJP set to form the government in West Bengal, the elected legislative leader will assume the role of Chief Minister. Speculation is rife within the party, with Suvendu Adhikari being considered a strong contender. However, the final decision will only be confirmed after the meeting with MLAs.
Sources indicate that once the name is finalised, the chosen leader will visit Raj Bhavan along with other MLAs to formally stake claim to form the government. Shah is expected to stay overnight in New Town and attend the swearing-in ceremony at Brigade Parade Ground on Saturday.
All eyes are now on the outcome of Friday’s meeting, which is expected to determine the next Chief Minister of West Bengal.
Leave a Reply