Debashish Samantaray on Tuesday formally joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at the party headquarters in New Delhi, marking a significant political development in Odisha politics.
Samantaray joined the BJP in the presence of senior party leaders, just a day after resigning from the Biju Janata Dal (BJD). His move is being viewed as another setback for the regional party amid changing political dynamics in the state following the 2024 elections.
Samantaray Praises PM Modi After Joining BJP
Speaking after joining the saffron party, Debashish Samantaray said he was inspired by the leadership and vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
He stated that he joined the BJP after being impressed by Modi’s dedication and leadership qualities.
Samantaray also said he intends to work for developmental activities in Odisha through the BJP platform and expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for accepting him into the party.
He further stated that the BJP’s commitment towards the vision of “Vikshit Bharat” motivated him to take the political step.
Third Former BJD Rajya Sabha MP To Exit Party
With Samantaray’s departure, the number of former BJD Rajya Sabha MPs leaving the party has now risen to three, highlighting the growing political churn within Odisha.
A veteran politician from coastal Odisha, Debashish Samantaray had represented the BJD in the Rajya Sabha and was considered one of the prominent leaders of the regional party.
Political observers believe his induction into the BJP could help strengthen the party’s organisational base in Odisha ahead of upcoming political activities and future elections.
BJD Yet To React Officially
The Biju Janata Dal has not issued any official response so far regarding Samantaray’s resignation and decision to join the BJP.
The latest political shift comes at a time when Odisha’s political landscape continues to witness significant realignments after the 2024 electoral developments.
