Bhubaneswar: Former IAS officer VK Pandian, who joined the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) today, said he will work for the people of Odisha.

"With the guidance of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, I will work for the people of Odisha in a dedicated, humble and selfless manner," said Pandian after joining the party.

"I welcome Pandian to the Biju Janata Dal. As all of you know, he has been working very hard for the several years for the people of our state. He will continue to do so as a member of the party. I wish him all the best," said BJD President Naveen Patnaik.

A meeting of the party in this regard was held at Naveen Niwas, residence of BJD supremo Naveen Patnaik here, in the presence of senior leaders of the party in the morning.

“VK Pandian joined the BJD with the blessings of party chief Naveen Patnaik. Pandian was advised by Patnaik to work for the state and the party like he worked with Patnaik for the last 13-14 years. Patnaik exuded hope that Pandian will bring success to the party like he did for the administration. Patnaik also said that Pandian’s administrative and political experience will be a great asset for the party,” said senior BJD leader Pinaki Misra.

Pandian was earlier working as the Private Secretary (5T) to Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and is currently serving as Chairman, 5T (Transformational Initiatives) and Nabin Odisha.

The Central Government had approved the voluntary retirement of the former bureaucrat on October 23.

The development holds significance ahead of the 2024 elections as the party has started strengthening its organization in various constituencies in a bid to continue the victory streak.

Pandian had earlier attended meetings in all districts of Odisha to review developmental projects.