JOIN USFormer Odisha chief minister Giridhar Gamang, whose single vote caused the Vajpayee government to collapse in 1999 leading to fresh Lok Sabha elections, has decided to join the BJP.
After quitting the Congress last month end, Gamang met BJP chief Amit Shah here on Friday as he said he was impressed with saffron party’s “political strategy”.
“I have decided to join the BJP, but I will join formally soon. It will be decided by the state unit soon. I had met Amit Shah today and made my plea which has been accepted by the party leadership,” Gamang said emerging from an hour-long meeting with Shah.
The former chief minister said he opted for the BJP realising that “ there was my acceptance” despite having many options.
“The BJP is a national party and now it has proved as an alternative to the Congress. The way they are having their strategy in Indian democracy, I think this new concept of political strategy...I like it as it is not only to be in power but also to serve people,” the nine-time MP told reporters.
Veteran tribal leader of Odisha Gamang said he resigned after serving the Congress for 42 years since he felt humiliated by the party leadership. A senior BJP leader said he would be taken into the party since he is an important tribal face in Odisha.