Congress leader V. D. Satheesan takes oath as the Chief Minister of Kerala on Monday along with a 20-member cabinet, as the United Democratic Front (UDF) prepares to formally assume power in the state after ten years.

Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar administered the oath of office and secrecy at the Central Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram. Senior Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and Mallikarjun Kharge attended the ceremony.

The swearing-in marks the UDF’s return to government in Kerala following its victory in the 2026 Assembly elections. Satheesan, who served as Leader of the Opposition during the previous term, has been credited with strengthening the Congress-led alliance’s grassroots campaign in the state.

According to reports, the new ministry includes several first-time ministers, with the UDF aiming to balance experience and fresh leadership in the cabinet.

Reports also said the incoming government plans to introduce measures aimed at reducing VIP culture and limiting official extravagance.

Cabinet formation and political significance

The Congress-led alliance secured a decisive mandate in the Kerala Assembly elections, defeating the Left Democratic Front government led by Pinarayi Vijayan.

Satheesan’s elevation to the top post comes after days of internal consultations within the Congress leadership over the chief ministerial choice.

The incoming administration is expected to finalise portfolio allocations shortly after the oath-taking ceremony.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has sent a strong message to party members amid internal unrest following the Trinamool Congress’ electoral defeat in the 2026 Assembly elections, saying those who wish to leave the party are free to do so.

The remarks come as the TMC grapples with its worst electoral performance in years and growing dissatisfaction within its ranks.

‘Will not stop anyone from leaving’

At a recent internal review meeting with party candidates, Banerjee reportedly told leaders that she would not attempt to hold back anyone planning to exit the party. She emphasised that the organisation would move forward with those who remain committed.

According to party sources, she said she would focus on rebuilding the organisation from the ground up, including restoring party offices and strengthening grassroots-level structures.

Push for rebuilding the organisation

Banerjee also called for detailed, area-wise reports from party workers and directed them to hold meetings at block and town levels to assess the reasons behind the defeat.

She further indicated that the party would undergo internal restructuring, with efforts aimed at reviving organisational strength at the local level.

Fact-finding teams and internal review

As part of the post-poll exercise, the Trinamool Congress has also set up multiple fact-finding teams to examine alleged irregularities in key districts.

These developments highlight growing internal churn within the party as it attempts to recover from its electoral setback and rebuild its support base.

Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee has been charged following allegations that he delivered provocative speeches during the West Bengal Assembly election campaign.

According to reports, the complaint was filed by a social worker identified as Rajiv Sarkar on May 5. The complaint alleged that the Diamond Harbour MP made inflammatory remarks at multiple campaign events held between April 27 and May 3.

The allegations also claimed that remarks made by Banerjee included threats directed at Union Home Minister Amit Shah during the heated election campaign in West Bengal.

Reports said the case was registered at the Bidhannagar North Cyber Crime Police Station. The development comes amid continuing political tensions in the state after the recently concluded Assembly elections.

The Trinamool Congress and the BJP have been engaged in sharp exchanges following the election results and subsequent allegations linked to violence and political targeting in different parts of the state.