PM Modi's Economic Advisor Sanjeev Sanyal Frontrunner For Bengal Finance Minister Post: Report

Last Updated:May 15, 2026, 18:22 IST

CM Adhikari recently said he would vacate the Nandigram seat, potentially opening the door for Sanyal’s entry into active state politics.

Sanjeev Sanyal, a member of the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council (EAC), is emerging as a strong contender for the finance minister’s post in West Bengal as the BJP finalises its new cabinet, according to a report by The Telegraph.

The ruling party in the state is also considering bringing Sanyal into the state Assembly. West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari recently said he would retain the Bhabanipur seat and vacate Nandigram, potentially opening the door for Sanyal’s entry into active state politics.

Sanyal Attended BJP Govt’s Swearing In Ceremony

At present, only five ministers have been sworn into the new BJP government in Bengal, with CM Adhikari temporarily handling major portfolios including finance, home, health, education, industry and commerce. Reports suggest the party is looking for someone with strong economic credentials to lead the finance department, making Sanyal a likely choice.

Interestingly, Sanyal was also seen attending Adhikari’s swearing-in ceremony on May 9 in traditional Bengali attire alongside his wife, Smita Barooah, who is believed to have helped the BJP strengthen outreach among women voters. Later in the day, he posted on social media: “Witnessed history."

Who Is Sanjeev Sanyal?

An economist, author and policy expert, Sanyal has served on the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council since 2022 and holds the rank of secretary to the Government of India. He previously worked as principal economic adviser to the Union finance minister and spent over two decades in international finance, including senior roles at Deutsche Bank.

A Rhodes Scholar at the University of Oxford, Sanyal has also authored several acclaimed books on Indian history and economics. The BJP has previously brought experienced bureaucrats into politics, with leaders like S. Jaishankar and Hardeep Singh Puri serving as prominent examples.

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