The first session of the 18 th West Bengal Legislative Assembly began on Thursday (June 18, 2026) with West Bengal Governor R.N. Ravi delivering his inaugural address. From curbing corruption to evicting intruders, from evicting illegal encroachments to women’s safety the Governor touched upon almost every initiative of the state government in the last one and a half months in his address.
“”For the first time in the last one and a half decades, the people of West Bengal have given a clear public opinion in favour of the new government. The people of the State have clearly rejected the atmosphere of fear and despair that existed in the state for a long time,” the Governor said addressing the House.
Governor Ravi in his 20-page address, commended the State government’s decision—taken within days of assuming office last month—to strengthen border infrastructure and provide land to the Border Security Force (BSF) for erecting barbed-wire fencing along the international border. He remarked that this move would assist in securing the international borders adjoining Bengal.
“The new government under the leadership of Suvendu Adhikari will develop the state overall, regardless of caste or religion. My government is aware of the challenges and responsibilities ahead.” the Governor said.
Mr. Ravi said that the new government will ensure the safety and security of everyone in the state. The Governor said that the new government will also ensure that every common man of the state can live his daily life with dignity and freedom.
The first Budget of the BJP government will be presented will be presented on June 22. Prior to this six-hour discussion on the Governor’s address and a ten-hour discussion on the budget are also scheduled in the session.
Trinamool Congress rebel camp leader Ritabrata Banerjee, recognised by the Speaker as the Leader of the Opposition, welcomed what the discussion and time allotted to him for the discussion.
“In the last fifteen years, West Bengal Assembly sessions were held for the least time anywhere in the country…We want this tradition to change. The working days of the Assembly must be increased,” Mr. Banerjee said.
Published - June 19, 2026 12:17 am IST
Bengal / Kolkata / Bharatiya Janata Party / state budget and tax
Source: The Hindu - India News
