Is Suvendu Adhikari, ex-TMC leader, set to be West Bengal CM as BJP scripts history?

As counting trends for West Bengal election results 2026 continue on May 4, one name is dominating the conversation - Suvendu Adhikari. The former TMC leader, now BJP’s key face in Bengal, is being seen as a frontrunner in the Chief Minister race as the party pushes for a historic first government in the state.

Adhikari’s rise makes this moment even more interesting. Once a close aide of Mamata Banerjee during the Nandigram movement, he is now leading BJP’s challenge against her stronghold. Early trends show him ahead in Nandigram but trailing in Bhabanipur, keeping the CM question open. As results take shape, the big question remains - will Suvendu Adhikari be BJP’s CM pick if the party forms the government?

What do latest counting trends say about Suvendu Adhikari?

As per trends (around 3:30 pm):

• Nandigram: Suvendu Adhikari (BJP) leading by over 14,000 votes
• Bhabanipur: Mamata Banerjee leading; Adhikari trailing

This mixed performance shows that while Adhikari retains stronghold areas, the contest remains competitive overall.

Who is Suvendu Adhikari?

Suvendu Adhikari is a senior BJP leader from Contai in East Midnapore district.

• Comes from a political family; father Sisir Adhikari
• Started with student politics
• Rose as a grassroots नेता with strong rural connect
• Known for his aggressive and organisationally strong style

How did Nandigram make Suvendu Adhikari a ‘giant killer’?

The Nandigram movement of 2007 was a turning point in Bengal politics.

• Adhikari worked alongside Mamata Banerjee during the anti-land acquisition protests
• Built his identity as a mass नेता

In 2021, he defeated Mamata Banerjee from Nandigram - a moment that earned him the ‘giant killer’ tag and national recognition.

Why did Suvendu Adhikari leave TMC and join BJP?

In December 2020, he joined BJP in the presence of Amit Shah.

Key reasons:

• Allegations of corruption within TMC
• Internal disagreements with leadership

Impact:

• Big political setback for TMC
• Strengthened BJP’s presence in Bengal

Why is Suvendu Adhikari considered BJP’s key face in Bengal?

Adhikari is seen as BJP’s most credible Bengali leader with a strong voter base.

Key factors:

• Deep grassroots network
• Strong cadre mobilisation
• Ability to challenge TMC in its core regions

Will Suvendu Adhikari become West Bengal Chief Minister?

What works in his favour?

• Strong ground support
• Proven electoral track record
• BJP leadership’s trust
• Direct connect with voters

What are the challenges?

• BJP often prefers collective leadership
• Final decision rests with party high command