The swearing-in ceremony of Suvendu Adhikari as West Bengal's Chief Minister marked a significant moment for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), showcasing its growing influence in a state long dominated by the Trinamool Congress. During the event, 97-year-old Makhanlal Sarkar, a long-time aide of Jan Sangh founder Syama Prasad Mookerjee, was recognized for his contributions to the party. Sarkar was arrested in 1952 while accompanying Mookerjee during a movement advocating for the integration of Jammu and Kashmir with India. Mookerjee's death during this movement has led to the enduring slogan emphasizing Kashmir's significance to India. Despite his age, Sarkar remains active in the BJP, having played a crucial role in mobilizing support and expanding the party's footprint in West Bengal since the 1980s. His work has included enrolling around 10,000 members in a year across various districts. The ceremony was attended by key BJP figures, including Prime Minister Modi, who touched Sarkar's feet as a gesture of respect for the party's veteran members. This event symbolizes a new political direction for West Bengal as the BJP aims to reshape the state's political landscape.