Kolkata, May 15 (UNI) Former Union Minister and ex BJP MP from Alipurduar John Barla, joined the Trinamool Congress (TMC) on Thursday, alleging that the BJP consistently blocked his efforts to work for tribal communities and tea garden workers.
Barla, who served as the Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs in the Narendra Modi government from 2021 to 2024, was denied a BJP ticket for last year's Lok Sabha elections. The party fielded Manoj Tigga instead, who went on to win the seat. Following this, Barla distanced himself from the BJP's West Bengal leadership, fuelling speculation about his political future.
After officially switching sides, Barla criticised BJP’s internal functioning, accusing Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of the Opposition in West Bengal, of repeatedly obstructing developmental initiatives during his tenure as minister. He cited failed attempts to build a hospital in collaboration with the Railways and complete land-related formalities for tribal development projects.
“Despite winning with public support, I wasn’t allowed to deliver. The opposition leader directly intervened to block work,” Barla said.
“Even after land was identified and plans were in place; the MoU was stalled due to internal sabotage,” he added.
Expressing gratitude to TMC chief Mamata Banerjee, he praised her government’s efforts to uplift tea garden workers, including the distribution of land pattas—something he claimed had been long overdue.
Barla emphasised that his move to TMC was motivated by a desire to serve marginalised communities more effectively. “Under Mamata Banerjee’s leadership, I believe I can fulfil my commitments to the tribal and tea garden population,” he said.
As of now, Adhikari has not responded to Barla’s allegations.
Political analysts note that Barla’s defection underscores the ongoing internal discord within the Bengal BJP, which has hindered the party’s ability to present a united front against the ruling TMC. With the West Bengal Assembly elections looming next year, Barla’s exit is seen as am organisational setback for the BJP in North Bengal. UNI XC SSP