Kanthi, 01 June (H.S.) : Arup Kumar Das, the MLA from Dakshin Kanthi, was inducted as a Cabinet Minister in the expanded Council of Ministers of the West Bengal government on Monday, marking a significant milestone in his political career. His elevation has sparked celebrations across the Kanthi subdivision and surrounding areas.

Before entering active politics, Das built a distinguished career in education. He served as the Principal of Kanthi High School and holds a Master’s degree in Physics. Widely respected as an educator, he was known not only for his academic leadership but also for providing free coaching and guidance to students from the region.

Das joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2021 under the leadership of Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. In the same year, he contested the Assembly elections from the Dakshin Kanthi constituency and was elected as an MLA for the first time. His growing influence within the party later earned him the responsibility of serving as the BJP district president in Kanthi.

A resident of Ward No. 8 of Kanthi Municipality, Das also has experience in local governance, having previously served as a municipal councillor. In the 2026 Assembly elections, he successfully retained the Dakshin Kanthi seat, securing a second consecutive term in the state legislature. Following his victory, he was inducted into the state cabinet as a Cabinet Minister.

Apart from Das, three other legislators from Purba Medinipur district were also included in the expanded ministry. They are Shantanu Pramanik, MLA from Bhagabanpur; Ashok Dinda, MLA from Moyna; and Dr. Harekrishna Bera, the physician-turned-politician and MLA from Tamluk.

Residents of the region have described Das’s rise from a respected educator to a Cabinet Minister as an inspiring journey. Many believe his administrative experience, educational background, and close connection with the local community will help accelerate development initiatives in the area.

Political observers view his induction into the cabinet as recognition of both his organizational contributions to the BJP and his growing stature in the district's political landscape.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh