After his recent release from prison, there is a lot of speculation about whether corporator Amaresh Jena may join the Odisha Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Jena was given a lavish reception on Thursday after being freed over three months after his detention. 
After BJP leader Jagannath Pradhan was spotted receiving him with a bouquet of flowers and a number of followers, such rumours grew more intense.

In local circles, the gesture has generated political talk, with many people speculating that it could be a sign of Jena's move to the BJP. However, neither Jena nor the party officials have yet to issue an official remark on the subject.

However, rumours have been stoked by BJP leader Jagannath Pradhan's comments. Pradhan praised Jena, saying he has always been close to the people and has supported them through good times and bad.  He went on to say that it was unfair that the BJD and party leader Naveen Patnaik had cut ties with Jena during his trying time. 

"It is our duty to congratulate him upon getting justice and being released from jail," BJP leader Jagannath Pradhan stated in a statement regarding the situation. I would be thrilled to have a young, capable leader join the BJP if he so chooses. I'll talk to my party members about it once he agrees. 

The Reaction of Amaresh Jena
The Orissa High Court granted Amaresh Jena conditional release on October 17 after he was arrested about three months ago in relation to a case involving claims of sexual assault against a juvenile.

Corporator Amaresh Jena thanked Lord Jagannath for his freedom from prison and reaffirmed his belief in the legal system.

Jena declared, "Today was a victory for those who plotted my political and social demise." "I have faith in our legal system and Lord Jagannath. As I have, I pray that the Lord pardons the conspirators. I have no idea who they are, but the truth will be revealed shortly," he continued.

Jena's comments coincide with conjecture on his subsequent political action after being freed. Pradhan's remarks imply that the BJP would be amenable to his inclusion, even if Jena has not declared his next political move.