West Bengal Elections 2026: What did Leander Paes say after joining BJP? Will he play a pivotal role in polls?
West Bengal Elections 2026: Former tennis legend Leander Paes joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday. Paes formally accepted the party's membership in the presence of Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, West Bengal BJP State President Sukanta Majumdar, and other senior leaders. Rijiju welcomed him by presenting a bouquet of flowers along with his BJP membership slip.
Paes could play a pivotal role in the upcoming elections
Leander Paes's decision to join the BJP ahead of the West Bengal Assembly elections-2026 carries significant political weight. His induction into the party prior to the polls is being viewed as a highly significant development. Observers are speculating that he could play a pivotal role in the upcoming state assembly elections. According to reports, Mr. Paes had recently met with BJP President Nitin Navin during a visit to West Bengal. Soumik Bhattacharya was also present during this meeting.
A momentous day in my life: Paes
Speaking after joining the BJP, Paes said, "This is a momentous day in my life. I would like to express my gratitude to Prime Minister Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and BJP President Nitin Nabin. I am deeply thankful to the BJP for providing me with this opportunity to serve the people and the youth of this country. Holding this BJP membership slip places a great responsibility upon me."
The induction of former tennis player Paes into the BJP is expected to give the party a strategic advantage in the Bengal Assembly elections.
Paes had previously joined TMC in 2021
It is worth noting that Leander Paes had previously joined the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in 2021; however, he has now distanced himself from that party and decided to join the BJP instead. Speculation regarding this move intensified following his recent meeting with BJP President Nabin.
One of India's most successful tennis players
Paes is widely regarded as one of India's most successful tennis players. He won a bronze medal at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. Additionally, he holds the distinction of having won eight men's doubles and 10 mixed doubles Grand Slam titles. Paes has enjoyed highly successful partnerships with players such as Mahesh Bhupathi and Martina Navratilova. He also holds the record for winning the most doubles matches in the history of the Davis Cup.
Paes has been conferred with the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, the Padma Shri, and the Padma Bhushan. His entry into active politics could now create a new dynamic in the West Bengal elections.