In a major political development in Odisha, former Biju Janata Dal (BJD) Rajya Sabha MP Debashish Samantaray on Tuesday formally joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at the party headquarters in New Delhi.

Samantaray joined the BJP in the presence of senior party leaders, barely a day after resigning from the BJD. His switch is being viewed as another setback for the regional party amid shifting political equations in the state following the 2024 elections.

Speaking after joining the saffron party, Samantaray expressed admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said he was inspired by the BJP’s vision and leadership.

“Impressed with PM Modi’s personality and dedication, I joined BJP today. I will work in developmental works in Odisha by joining the party,” he said.

“There are many leaders for who I am joining the party. I extend my gratitude to PM Modi for including me in his party which is working for Vikshit Bharat,” Samantaray added.

With his departure, the number of former BJD Rajya Sabha MPs who have exited the party has now risen to three, underlining the growing churn within Odisha politics.

Also Read: Rajya Sabha resignation sparks buzz: BJD’s Debashish Samantaray likely to join BJP today

A veteran politician from coastal Odisha, Samantaray had represented the BJD in the Rajya Sabha and was considered one of the prominent leaders of the party. Political observers believe his induction could help the BJP further strengthen its organisational presence in the state ahead of upcoming political activities and elections.

The BJD has not yet issued any official reaction to Samantaray’s decision to join the BJP.