Leander Paes Joins BJP: A Commitment to Youth and Sports

Key Takeaways

Leander Paes joins the BJP with a focus on youth development .

He is a celebrated tennis player with numerous Grand Slam titles .

His political shift occurs ahead of critical West Bengal elections .

The elections will occur in two phases on April 23 and April 29 .

All 294 constituencies will vote in this closely watched political battle.

Kolkata, March 31 (NationPress) Tennis icon Leander Paes expressed his dedication to prioritizing youth development and the advancement of sports in India following his recent affiliation with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) this past Tuesday, just in time for the upcoming elections in West Bengal.

Paes, a multiple Grand Slam doubles champion and bronze medalist from the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games, extended his gratitude to Nitin Nabin, the BJP's national president, for his faith in him.

"I sincerely thank Shri Nitin Nabin Ji @NitinNabin for his instrumental support and encouragement as I embark on this new journey with the Bharatiya Janata Party. I am fully devoted to working with integrity and dedication, especially concerning youth development and the growth of sports in our nation. Jai Bharat Jai Hind," Paes stated in a post on X, previously known as Twitter.

He officially joined the BJP in New Delhi, surrounded by senior party officials, shortly after a meeting with state BJP leader Nitin Nabin in Kolkata, which had sparked speculation about his political shift.

Upon welcoming him to the party, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju remarked, "There is no need for a separate introduction of the legendary Leander Paes. Across India, everyone recognizes who he is. Nonetheless, today marks a historic moment as Leander Paes joins the BJP family. Inspired by Prime Minister Modi's efforts for sports and athletes over the last 12 years, he has chosen to join our ranks..."

Paes, one of India's most renowned tennis players with a collection of Grand Slam titles, previously ventured into politics by joining the All India Trinamool Congress in 2021. He campaigned for the party during the Goa Assembly elections in 2022 but did not run for any office.

This transition occurs at a pivotal moment as political fervor escalates in West Bengal leading up to the Assembly elections. The contest is anticipated to primarily pit the ruling All India Trinamool Congress, headed by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, against the BJP, which is striving to broaden its influence in the state.

The West Bengal Assembly elections are scheduled to occur in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with the counting of votes set for May 4. All 294 constituencies will participate in what is expected to be a closely monitored political showdown.

Point of View

Leander Paes' entry into the BJP signifies a notable shift in the political landscape of West Bengal. As a renowned athlete, his focus on youth and sports could resonate with younger voters, potentially influencing the upcoming Assembly elections.

NationPress

7 Aug 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Leander Paes join the BJP?

Leander Paes joined the BJP to prioritize youth development and the advancement of sports in India, inspired by the party's efforts under Prime Minister Modi.

What is Leander Paes' background in sports?

Leander Paes is a celebrated tennis player known for his multiple Grand Slam titles and his bronze medal win at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.

What are the upcoming elections in West Bengal?

The West Bengal Assembly elections are set to take place in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with results being counted on May 4.

What political party did Paes belong to before BJP?

Before joining the BJP, Leander Paes was a member of the All India Trinamool Congress, where he campaigned during the Goa Assembly elections in 2022.

How might Paes' involvement affect the BJP's prospects?

Leander Paes' involvement could enhance the BJP's appeal to younger voters, given his status as a sports icon and his commitment to youth and sports development.