Bhubaneswar, June 24: Speculation is mounting over the possible entry of former IAS officer Sujata Rout Karthikeyan into the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), with political circles abuzz with party supremo Naveen Patnaik chairing a crucial meeting at his residence Naveen Niwas on Wednesdayhere.

While there has been no official confirmation from either the former bureaucrat or the BJD leadership, discussions surrounding her potential political move have gathered momentum in the State with Patnaik holding a meeting with senior party leaders at his residence.

Opposition Chief Whip Pramila Mallik, BJD vice presidents - Pratap Jena and Atanu Sabyasachi Nayak and BJD Political Affairs Committee member Tukuni Sahu attended the meeting chaired by Patnaik.

Though Mallik and Nayak told media persons that the meeting focused on the ongoing special intensive revision (SIR) exercise in the State, former Titlagarh MLA Tukuni Sahu, when asked by media persons on whether the meeting discussed on the potential entry of Sujata into fold, said that they will welcome Sujata Rout Karthikeyan if she joins the BJD.

“We will welcome her if she joins BJD. Her contribution to the empowerment of women is immense,” said Sahu.

She also said that meeting discussed about the SIR being carried out by the Election Commission of India in the State.

The possibility of Sujata joining the regional party has drawn significant attention given her administrative experience, public profile, and roots in Kendrapara district. However, party leaders have remained tight-lipped, adding to the suspense.

Now, all eyes are on Naveen Patnaik and the BJD leadership to see whether the speculation culminates in a major political announcement.

Sources said that, Patnaik has convened a crucial meeting of the senior party leaders on Thursday where he may make the formal announcement.