Indian tennis legend Leander Paes joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Delhi on Tuesday, ahead of the West Bengal Assembly elections.
He entered the party in the presence of Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju and Sukanta Majumdar.
Paes recently met BJP leader Nitin Nabin in Kolkata, sparking speculation about his political move. His formal induction confirmed those reports and added momentum to the BJP’s campaign in Bengal.
The former tennis star had earlier joined the Trinamool Congress in 2021 and campaigned for the party during the Goa elections in 2022, though he did not contest. His switch to the BJP marks a significant political realignment as the state prepares for polls.
Party leaders described Paes as a “pre-poll ace,” highlighting his popularity and influence. His entry is expected to energize BJP’s outreach in constituencies like Perambur and Trichy East, where he has shown interest in contesting.
West Bengal will vote in a single phase on April 23, with counting scheduled for May 4. Paes’ move comes at a critical time as parties intensify their campaigns.
