The Bharatiya Janata Party's West Bengal president, Sumeckh Bharatiya, announced on Wednesday that the swearing-in ceremony of the state's new chief minister will be held on May 9 at the historic Brigade Parade Ground in Kolkata, which will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
While talking to journalists, Sumeckh Bharatiya said that preparations for the swearing-in ceremony are underway in full swing and the administration is in close touch to ensure that the event is conducted in a dignified and organized manner.
Earlier, he met with the state's Chief Secretary, Hari Narayanan, along with the BJP's central observers, Sunil Bansal, Jyotirmay Singh Mahato, and Somitro Khan, where they discussed the arrangements and security for the ceremony.
A crucial meeting of the BJP's newly elected MLAs will be held on May 8, where key decisions are expected to be taken by the leadership before the swearing-in.
Speculations are rife over the face of the state's first BJP chief minister, however, Sumeckh Bharatiya refused to comment on the matter.
Meanwhile, he took a strong stance on the post-poll violence, saying that hooliganism or violence in the name of the party will not be tolerated at any cost. He said that some people are making irresponsible moves by waving the BJP flag, but the party will take strict action against such elements.
He clarified that turncoats who have recently joined the BJP from the Trinamool Congress will not be given importance in the party. According to him, the BJP's ideological foundation has been established through decades of sacrifice and hard work, and no one will be allowed to weaken its identity.
Sumeckh Bharatiya further said that if any BJP worker or leader is found involved in violence, they will be immediately expelled from the party. He said, "Provide me with names and photos, I will take action myself. If I fail to do so, I will resign from my post."
However, he also clarified that the BJP has not yet taken over the state's power. According to him, the current situation is a transitional phase, so the responsibility of maintaining law and order lies with the Election Commission and the Governor for now.