Kolkata, May 9: At the historic swearing-in ceremony of Suvendu Adhikari as West Bengal’s first BJP Chief Minister and ninth CM of the state, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a heartfelt tribute to one of the party’s oldest grassroots stalwarts, Makhanlal Sarkar.

Upon arriving at Kolkata’s Brigade Parade Ground, the Prime Minister, accompanied by Chief Minister-designate Adhikari and BJP state president Samik Bhattacharya, rode in an open jeep, waving to the thousands of supporters gathered in a sea of saffron.

The atmosphere was electrified with traditional drum performances and cultural displays, reflecting Bengal’s vibrant heritage.
Also read: Suvendu Adhikari Sworn in as First BJP CM of West Bengal, Five Others Take Oath

After the ceremonial ride, PM Modi ascended the stage to greet dignitaries including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, several Union Cabinet members, and Chief Ministers from BJP-ruled states.

Ahead of the swearing-in of Bengal’s first BJP-led government, PM Modi bowed before the people of West Bengal, saluting their ‘Jana Shakti’ (people’s power) after the party’s landmark 2026 Assembly election victory.

In another poignant moment, he approached Makhanlal Sarkar, one of the most senior BJP workers in Bengal, presenting him with a shawl as a mark of respect and seeking his blessings.

PM Modi bowed and touched the feet of 98-year-old Makhanlal Sarkar, a veteran BJP worker and freedom fighter, before embracing him on stage.

Who is Makhanlal Sarkar?

At 98, Makhanlal Sarkar stands as one of the enduring grassroots figures of India’s nationalist movement in the post-Independence era. His journey reflects both courage and commitment.

In 1952, he was arrested in Kashmir while accompanying Syama Prasad Mookerjee during the movement to hoist the Indian Tricolour, a defining moment that underscored his dedication to national unity.

With the formation of the Bharatiya Janata Party in 1980, Sarkar took on the role of organisational coordinator for West Dinajpur, Jalpaiguri, and Darjeeling districts. His tireless efforts bore fruit almost immediately — within a year, he enrolled nearly 10,000 members, strengthening the party’s grassroots presence in Bengal.

From 1981, Sarkar served as district president for seven consecutive years, a rare achievement at a time when BJP leaders typically rotated positions every two years. His long tenure reflected not only his leadership skills but also the trust and respect he commanded within the organisation.