If the political landscape of West Bengal were to shift, leading to a BJP-led government with Suvendu Adhikari at the helm, the first Cabinet meeting would likely be a high-octane event aimed at dismantling the previous decade’s administrative framework and replacing it with the “Double Engine” model.
Here is a detailed breakdown of the landmark decisions likely to be taken in such a meeting and the strategic explanations behind them.
1. Universal Implementation of Ayushman Bharat
The Decision: The Cabinet’s first move would likely be the immediate adoption of the central healthcare scheme, Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY), replacing or integrating it with the state’s Swasthya Sathi scheme.
The Explanation: Suvendu Adhikari has frequently criticized the Swasthya Sathi card as a “piece of plastic” with no real funding. By adopting Ayushman Bharat, the administration would aim to provide portable healthcare (usable outside Bengal) and tap into central funding. This decision serves to signal the end of “state-center confrontation” and ensures that the poorest citizens have access to tertiary care across India.
2. Clearance of PM-Kisan Arrears and 7th Pay Commission
The Decision: A dual-pronged financial move: approving the full rollout of PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi (including back-dated arrears for farmers) and the announcement of a committee to implement the 7th Pay Commission for state government employees.
The Explanation:
- For Farmers: Adhikari’s base in rural Bengal (especially Medinipur) relies on the agrarian vote. Clearing PM-Kisan hurdles would be a direct “thank you” to the rural electorate.
- For Employees: State employees in Bengal have long protested the disparity in Dearness Allowance (DA) compared to central employees. Implementing the 7th Pay Commission would be a strategic move to win the loyalty of the state’s bureaucracy and middle class.
3. Formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) on Recruitment Scams
The Decision: The first Cabinet would likely order the formation of a high-level SIT, monitored by the Chief Minister’s Office, to expedite investigations into the School Service Commission (SSC) and Primary TET recruitment scams.
The Explanation: This is a political necessity. The BJP’s campaign in Bengal has been built on the narrative of “Tolabaazi” (extortion) and “Cut-money.” By making this a Day 1 priority, Adhikari would seek to project an image of “zero tolerance for corruption” and provide a sense of justice to the thousands of protesting candidates who have spent years on the streets of Kolkata.
4. Notification of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) Support Framework
The Decision: While CAA is a federal law, the state Cabinet would likely pass a resolution to provide administrative support for the rapid processing of citizenship applications, particularly in border districts and Matua-dominated areas.
The Explanation: Suvendu Adhikari has been a vocal proponent of the CAA. For the BJP, the Matua community and refugees from Bangladesh are a vital constituency. This decision would be a strategic masterstroke to consolidate the refugee vote bank and fulfill a core ideological promise of the saffron party.
5. The “Annapurna” Scheme and Subsidized Meals
The Decision: Launching the Annapurna scheme to provide subsidized meals at ₹5, aimed at the urban and semi-urban poor, effectively replacing the Maa Canteen.
The Explanation: This is a direct competitive move to replace the TMC’s populist symbols with BJP-branded welfare. It aims to ensure that the transition of power does not result in the withdrawal of “pro-poor” optics, but rather an “upgrade” in the quality and reach of such services.
6. Border Security and Anti-Infiltration Task Force
The Decision: Creating a state-level task force to work in tandem with the BSF (Border Security Force) to monitor “demographic changes” and “illegal infiltration” in districts like Malda, Murshidabad, and North 24 Parganas.
The Explanation: Security is a cornerstone of Adhikari’s rhetoric. By aligning state police resources with central agencies, the government would aim to curb cross-border smuggling and infiltration. This decision carries heavy geopolitical weight, signaling a “hard state” approach to internal security.
7. Re-opening of Closed Industrial Units (The “Singur-Nandigram” Pivot)
The Decision: A policy directive to review all closed industrial units in the state and the creation of a “Single Window Clearance” system directly under the CM to attract heavy industry.
The Explanation: Having been a key player in the anti-land acquisition movements of 2007, Adhikari’s government would face the challenge of proving it is “pro-industry.” This decision would be aimed at shedding the “anti-industry” image of Bengal and signaling to global investors that the state is open for business, moving away from “syndicate raj.”
Conclusion: The Strategic Statement
The first Cabinet meeting under Suvendu Adhikari would be designed to deliver a “Shock and Awe” effect. The overarching goal would be to demonstrate that the “Double Engine” government is not just a slogan but a fast-tracked administrative reality. By focusing on Central Schemes, Anti-Corruption, and National Security, the decisions would aim to fundamentally re-orient West Bengal from a “rebel state” to a “model state” within the Union of India.
