Olympic medalist and former tennis star Leander Paes on Tuesday joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the presence of Union Ministers Kiren Rijiju and Sukanta Majumdar, marking his entry into the party ahead of the upcoming electoral season.
Paes had previously entered politics in 2021 with the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress (TMC). His move to the BJP signals a shift in his political alignment.
Speaking at the induction, Paes described the occasion as a significant moment in his life and expressed gratitude to the party leadership. He said he intends to focus on sports development, sports education, and youth engagement.
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju welcomed Paes into the party, stating that his presence would strengthen initiatives such as the Khelo India programme and contribute to sports development in the country.
Sukanta Majumdar also welcomed Paes, highlighting his influence among youth and noting his sporting legacy.
Soon after the announcement, the Trinamool Congress responded on social media with a sharp remark. In a post on X, the party said: “.@Leander has officially joined @BJP4India. Congratulations! You’ve finally found your next Goa Chief Minister candidate. Yet another BOHIRAGOTO parachuted into our state by BJP.”
.@Leander has officially joined @BJP4India.
— All India Trinamool Congress (@AITCofficial) March 31, 2026
Congratulations! You’ve finally found your next Goa Chief Minister candidate.
Yet another BOHIRAGOTO parachuted into our state by BJP 🙄 pic.twitter.com/mk0BpW6m1E
Paes, who had earlier been associated with the TMC in Goa, has not publicly responded to the remark.
During his address, Paes said his focus would be on long-term investment in sports education and infrastructure, particularly for young athletes. He also highlighted the need for greater support systems, including initiatives aimed at women’s empowerment through sports.
One of India’s most successful tennis players, Paes has had a career spanning over four decades and has been credited with popularising tennis in the country. He is a recipient of several national honours, including the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, Arjuna Award, Padma Shri, and Padma Bhushan.
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