Bhubaneswar: In a significant political turn, the Bharatiya Janata Party has lifted the suspension of veteran leader and former Balasore MP Aira Kharabela Swain, paving the way for his return to the saffron fold.

The Odisha BJP unit confirmed the decision in a statement.

Swain, a three-time Lok Sabha member from Balasore (1998, 1999, 2004), had parted ways with the party in 2009 to float his own outfit. He rejoined the BJP in 2019 but failed to secure victory in Kandhamal. Ahead of the 2024 polls, Swain sought the BJP ticket from Balasore but, denied the nomination, contested as an independent. His subsequent suspension for indiscipline had raised eyebrows within party circles.

The revocation now signals reconciliation, with Swain once again positioned as a senior figure in Odisha politics. Party insiders say his return could bolster BJP's organizational strength in coastal districts as the state gears up for future panchayat and urban body electoral battles.