Leander Paes met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Wednesday, a day after formally joining the Bharatiya Janata Party. The meeting marked the beginning of his political journey with the ruling party ahead of the West Bengal Assembly elections.
Paes expressed gratitude and admiration for the Prime Minister’s leadership. He said he felt honoured to join the team and contribute to nation-building.
PM Modi, in turn, highlighted Paes’s achievements in tennis and praised his commitment to sports and public service.
Had a great meeting with Shri Leander Paes Ji. India is very proud of his accomplishments in tennis. We discussed a wide range of issues. His passion towards sports and nation building is truly admirable.@Leander pic.twitter.com/NPiw0OuIcH
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 1, 2026
Earlier, Paes joined the BJP in the presence of senior leaders. He thanked HM Amit Shah for inducting him and assured him that he would serve with dedication.
Leander Paes stated that while he once wore the national flag on his chest as an athlete, he now carries it with greater responsibility. He further acknowledged Nitin Nabin for encouraging his entry into politics.
Leander Paes affirmed his focus on youth empowerment and the development of sports infrastructure across the country.
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju welcomed Paes, calling his entry into the party significant. He said Paes drew inspiration from the government’s initiatives for athletes over the past decade.
Previously, Paes had joined the All India Trinamool Congress in 2021 and campaigned during the Goa elections in 2022. However, he did not contest any seat.
Leander Paes’ move comes as political activity intensifies in West Bengal.
The elections will take place in two phases on April 23 and April 29, with counting scheduled for May 4. The contest is expected to be closely fought between the ruling party led by Mamata Banerjee and the BJP.
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