Kolkata, April 1 (NationPress) Following his recent induction into the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), tennis icon Leander Paes met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Wednesday.

"I am deeply honored by the leadership, enthusiasm, and commitment of Shri Narendra Modi Ji towards our nation. I feel privileged to be part of your team and to serve India under your esteemed guidance. Jai Hind Jai Bharat," Paes shared in response to a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, from Prime Minister Modi after their discussion.

Prior to their meeting, PM Modi took to social media to share highlights of their conversation, mentioning they covered a broad spectrum of topics.

"Had an excellent meeting with Shri Leander Paes Ji. India takes immense pride in its achievements in tennis. We explored a diverse range of subjects. His dedication to sports and nation-building is genuinely commendable," PM Modi noted in his post.

Paes officially joined the BJP on Tuesday, just ahead of the forthcoming elections in Bengal.

In gratitude, Paes acknowledged Home Minister Amit Shah for welcoming him into the BJP, expressing his intent to honor this trust with unwavering dedication and integrity.

In a post on X, Paes stated, "I am profoundly grateful to Shri Amit Shah Ji @AmitShah for welcoming me into the Bharatiya Janata Party @BJP4India and for placing your trust in me. I will work diligently to uphold this trust. Until now, I wore the Tiranga on my chest; now I carry it on my shoulders, committed to empowering our youth and enhancing sports throughout our nation. Jai Bharat Jai Hind.

In another message, Paes reiterated his commitment to focusing on youth development and promoting sports in India following his recent BJP affiliation, right before the elections in West Bengal.

He also expressed his appreciation to Nitin Nabin, the BJP's national president, for having faith in him.

"I extend my heartfelt thanks to Shri Nitin Nabin Ji @NitinNabin for his pivotal role, motivation, and confidence in me as I embark on this new journey with the Bharatiya Janata Party. I am dedicated to serving with integrity and a strong emphasis on youth development and sports advancement in our country. Jai Bharat Jai Hind," Paes posted on X.

Paes formally joined the BJP in New Delhi, accompanied by senior party officials, just days after his meeting with the state BJP chief Nitin Nabin in Kolkata, which had sparked speculation regarding his political shift.

Welcoming him into the party, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju stated, “There is no need for a separate introduction for the legendary Leander Paes. He is a household name across India. Today, Leander Paes’ inclusion in the BJP family marks a significant milestone. Inspired by Prime Minister Modi's contributions to sports and athletes over the past decade, Leander Paes has joined our party as a BJP member…”

Paes, one of India's most decorated tennis players with numerous Grand Slam titles, had previously entered the political arena as a member of the All India Trinamool Congress in 2021. He campaigned for the party during the Goa Assembly elections in 2022 but did not compete in any elections.

This transition comes at a pivotal moment as political activity escalates in West Bengal ahead of the Assembly elections. The contest in the state is anticipated to be primarily between the ruling All India Trinamool Congress, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, and the BJP, which aims to broaden its influence in the region.

The West Bengal Assembly elections are scheduled to take place in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with vote counting set for May 4. All 294 constituencies will participate in what promises to be a closely monitored political contest.