I am open to contest elections, says actor-turned-politician Arindam Roy

Bhubaneswar: Ollywood actor and BJD leader Arindam Roy today cleared the air over his meeting with Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in Cuttack on January 8.

Roy, a close relative of BJD general secretary (organisation) Pranab Prakash Das, said he had met BJP leader and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, a former IAS officer, as part of his effort to work for the people of Odisha.

“Vaishnaw was the Collector of Cuttack some years ago. I met him during his recent visit to Cuttack district. I always want to work for the people of Odisha. So, I can meet anyone as part of my effort to serve the people,” Roy said.

The Ollywood actor further said he has been inspired by the good work of BJD supremo and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.

“I am open to fight the elections if I get a chance in this regard,” Roy added.

Notably, Roy had met the Railway Minister at an Inspection Bungalow in Cuttack district on January 8. The meeting lasted for around 30 minutes, sources said.

Speculations are rife that the Odia film actor will contest the 2024 Assembly elections in Odisha.

Similarly, some media reports claimed that BJP leader Vaishnaw may fight the Lok Sabha election from Cuttack segment in the state.