Singh, considered to be an influential leader from politically sensitive Nayagarh district, joined BJD along with his supporters in the presence of Chief Minister and party supremo Naveen Patnaik at the party office here.
Singh had deserted Congress on February 20 accusing Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi, who visited Odisha earlier this month, of "ignoring grassroots level leaders."
"I was deeply saddened when the special protection group (SPG) security of Rahul Gandhi pushed me aside during a public meeting a fortnight ago as I wanted to speak to him," Singh had said.
Singh had also met Naveen Patnaik soon after quitting Congress, sources said.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
