After months of speculations and guessing games, former IAS officer VK Pandian, known to be the private secretary to Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, formally joined the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Monday, November 27, reported India Today.
This report follows Pandian's voluntary retirement from government service and sets the stage for his potential involvement in the upcoming Odisha Assembly elections in June 2024.
#WATCH | Odisha: VK Pandian, former IAS officer and chairman of 5T and Nabin Odisha scheme, arrives at BJD's party office in Bhubaneshwar.
He joined the BJD Party today in the presence of CM Naveen Patnaik. pic.twitter.com/98HeJYstnG
#WATCH | On VK Pandian joining BJD, party leader Amar Patnaik in Odisha's Bhubaneswar says, "This is not only a question of strengthening the party but it will also strengthen the state as a whole. He is committed to the development of the state like the CM. Pandian's joining the… pic.twitter.com/70Js6FjHBN
Serving as the private secretary, Pandian became a trusted aide to Chief Minister Patnaik, earning recognition for his contributions.
His entry into active politics within BJD opens avenues for speculation about his role in shaping Odisha's political future.