Bhubaneswar: In a significant move, former IAS officer VK Pandian officially joined the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) today, expressing his unwavering commitment to serving the people of Odisha under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.
In his statement following the formal induction into the party, Pandian affirmed, “Guided by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, I am dedicated to working tirelessly for the betterment of the people of Odisha with humility and selflessness.”
Welcoming Pandian to the Biju Janata Dal, party President Naveen Patnaik acknowledged the former bureaucrat’s years of dedicated service to the state. Patnaik stated, “I extend a warm welcome to Pandian in the Biju Janata Dal. His years of hard work for the people of our state are well known. As a party member, he will continue his service with the same commitment. I wish him all the best.”
The official joining ceremony took place during a party meeting at Naveen Niwas, the residence of BJD supremo Naveen Patnaik, and was attended by senior party leaders.
Previously serving as the Private Secretary (5T) to Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, VK Pandian currently holds the position of Chairman, 5T (Transformational Initiatives), and Nabin Odisha. His voluntary retirement from the bureaucratic service was approved by the Central Government on October 23.
This strategic move comes at a crucial juncture, ahead of the 2024 elections, as the BJD reinforces its organizational structure in various constituencies, aiming to sustain its success in the political landscape.