Bhubaneswar, Mar 31: Cuttack MP Bhartruhari Mahtab, who joined the Bharatiya Janata Party at a special programme in New Delhi yesterday, was given a grand reception by party activists on his arrival here today.He said neither the party (BJP) nor its symbol is new to him.

Mahtab was seen moving in a rooftop-open car escorted by hundreds of party workers and supporters.

A visibly elated Mahtab also expressed happiness for being part of the grand national party now as he said the party or party symbol is not new for him. 'I was fielded three times as the candidate of the BJD-BJP alliance. I had moved in rallies organised jointly by the two parties. I won Cuttack MP three times as an alliance candidate in 1998, 1999, and 2004. Thus the party (BJP) or party flag is not new to me. What is new to me is I have quit a party (BJD)," explained Mahtab.

"It is time for the destruction of the BJD bastion. The BJD is now well aware that it is going to lose the ensuing polls.

A major change is imminent in June 2024. It will be established by the people of the State," contended Mahtab.

The six-time MP said he, going by the enthusiasm of the people of the State, is determined to make Prime Minister Narendra Modi's messages reach villages. "Based on PM's messages, a campaign for nationality will be done and unity will be established," he said.

Mahtab further said he would make all efforts to take forward the PM's Purvodaya Resolution for the development of Odisha in the coming days.

Stating that there are many challenges ahead, Mahtab said he has resolved to fulfill the aspirations of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP national president JP Nadda with the support of party workers.

It may be noted that Mahtab has been named BJP candidate for the prestigious Cuttack Lok Sabha seat.

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