Kolkata, 01 June (H.S.): Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and Kulti MLA Dr. Ajay Kumar Poddar was inducted into the Suvendu Adhikari-led state cabinet on Monday, marking a significant milestone in his decades-long political career. Speaking to reporters after taking the oath of office, Poddar reiterated his commitment to realizing the vision of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee, saying that his public life has been dedicated to the ideals of the BJP founder.

A veteran BJP leader in West Bengal, Dr. Poddar's rise from a grassroots worker to a cabinet minister is being viewed as a testament to his unwavering loyalty to the organization, years of political struggle and strong connection with the people. His journey is widely regarded within the party as an example for younger workers and leaders.

Dr. Poddar began his public life in 1972 as a volunteer of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). A year later, in 1973, he entered active politics through the Bharatiya Jana Sangh. He also participated in the movement led by Jayaprakash Narayan and remained active during the Emergency period, advocating for democratic values and political freedoms.

Following the formation of the BJP in 1980, Poddar continued to work for the party organization and played a crucial role in strengthening its base in the Kulti region. His efforts contributed significantly to the party’s growth in the area over the years.

In the 2021 West Bengal Assembly elections, he secured victory from the Kulti constituency. He further consolidated his political standing in the 2026 Assembly elections by registering a decisive win with a margin of more than 26,000 votes.

Expressing his emotions after becoming a minister, Dr. Poddar said the achievement represented the fulfilment of a long-cherished dream. He stated that being part of a government in West Bengal was a tribute to the vision and legacy of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee. He noted that he and his colleagues had been working for the party since 1973 and would continue to follow every directive of the organization with the discipline of dedicated workers.

Poddar emphasized that the achievement was not personal but the result of decades of struggle, commitment and sacrifice by millions of party workers, along with the trust reposed in them by the people. He also expressed gratitude to the party leadership and the electorate, assuring that public service and development would remain his top priorities as a cabinet minister.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh