The political mercury is rising as rumors swirl about tennis legend Leander Paes potentially joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Just weeks before the crucial 2026 West Bengal Assembly Elections, Paes reportedly held high-level meetings with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP National President JP Nadda, fueling speculation of his entry into the saffron fold.

Paes, who joined the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in 2021 in the presence of Mamata Banerjee, has been relatively inactive in politics lately. His sudden meetings with BJP brass suggest a major political realignment. While some sources claim he might contest the upcoming Bengal polls, others believe he could be given a prominent role in India’s ‘Mission 2036 Olympics’ preparations. A formal announcement from New Delhi is expected soon, marking a significant new innings for the Olympic medalist.