Shuvendu to visit Delhi again amid speculation over formation of Bengal cabinet next week
The Statesman | 26 May 2026
The Central BJP leadership has called West Bengal Chief Minister Shuvendu Adhikari to Delhi again amid speculations over the expansion of his Council of Ministers.
More than two weeks have passed since the BJP government was sworn in in West Bengal. However, uncertainty remains over the formation of a full new cabinet sparking widespread discussions in political circles. According to BJP sources, the Chief Minister might attend a meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in the capital on Thursday, preceding Shah’s planned border inspection in Bengal.
The key focus of this visit is reportedly the outline of the state’s new cabinet, which is expected to be finalised during the discussion. BJP insiders stated that deliberations regarding the formation of the second phase of the cabinet are now in their final stages. Suvendu is likely to engage in direct talks with the party’s Central leadership regarding the list of prospective ministers.
According to sources, a crucial meeting took place at the BJP headquarters in Delhi last week and lasted about two and a half hours. The attendees included the party’s state president, Shamik Bhattacharya, Shuvendu Adhikari, all-India president Nitin Navin, Bengal in-charge Bhupendra Yadav, and Sunil Bansal. This discussion reportedly centred on the final blueprint for Bengal’s cabinet formation. The meeting with Amit Shah is also deemed highly significant.
Party insiders suggest there is a possibility of another meeting between Shuvendu and Nitin Navin soon. Discussions could focus on how to drive the new government forward while maintaining coordination between the organisation and administration.
Within the BJP itself, speculation is rife about who will find a place in the new cabinet. Will notable faces from leading movements take precedence, or will experienced administrators be given prominence? Alternatively, could there be surprises with entirely fresh faces being introduced? It’s also clear from the sources that district representation and social dynamics are likely to play a major role in shaping the selections.
According to sources, the state BJP has already prepared an initial list of around 40 potential ministers which has been sent to the Central leadership and the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) for review. It is also reported that the list was later forwarded to Home Minister Amit Shah for further scrutiny. The evaluation process includes assessing the political image, organisational contributions, administrative capabilities, and past controversies of the shortlisted candidates.
Meanwhile, Shuvendu Adhikari started sending strong signals at the administrative level, hinting at a firm approach. His current focus appears to be on forming his “Dream Team”. Political circles are now keenly observing how balanced the new cabinet will be and how effectively it can accelerate governance in the state.
After prolonged political struggles in the state, a new government has taken power. The Central leadership is keen to avoid any controversies or dissatisfaction from the outset. Political analysts believe this is why extra caution is being exercised in the formation of the cabinet. According to BJP sources, if everything proceeds as planned, an expansion of the cabinet might take place as soon as next week.
Meanwhile, speculation is naturally growing around Shuvendu’s meeting in Delhi, adding to the political intrigue.