A video from the 2026 West Bengal oath-taking ceremony in Kolkata has generated discussion on social media, with claims that BJP leader Smriti Irani was overlooked by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on stage. [1, 2]
This video shows the moment at the oath-taking ceremony that has been widely discussed:
Key Details of the Incident (May 9, 2026):
- The Incident: During the swearing-in ceremony of BJP’s Suvendu Adhikari as West Bengal Chief Minister, Smriti Irani was seen on stage attempting to greet PM Modi with folded hands.
- Viral Claim: Social media users highlighted a moment where PM Modi was interacting with Mithun Chakraborty and did not appear to look at or respond to Irani’s greeting.
- Context: While some users interpreted this as a deliberate snub or “cold shoulder,” others suggested it could be a matter of camera angles, timing, or simply a busy, chaotic moment on stage.
- Official Confirmation: As of May 10, 2026, no official source has confirmed that she was intentionally ignored or sidelined, and the incident remains a topic of speculation on social media. [1, 3, 4, 5]
Prior to this, Smriti Irani was active in campaigning, highlighting the BJP’s struggle and responsibilities in West Bengal. [6, 7]
AI responses may include mistakes.
[1] https://www.instagram.com/reel/DYH8eAPAc9I/
[2] https://www.youtube.com/shorts/rVvB33RTkcU
[4] https://www.instagram.com/reel/DYJDqDasPr0/
[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BbNAyawUw5s