Fri Jan 24 06:28:13 IST 2025: ## Former BJP Minister’s Appearance at West Bengal CM’s Event Sparks Defection Speculation

**Kolkata, January 24, 2025** – The participation of former Union Minister and BJP leader John Barla in a West Bengal government event on Thursday has ignited speculation about a potential shift in political allegiances. Barla, a prominent tribal leader from North Bengal, shared a dais with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, fueling rumors of an impending move to the Trinamool Congress (TMC).

While sources within the TMC suggest no formal joining took place due to the event’s official nature, Barla hinted at dissatisfaction with the BJP. He stated that he wants to “work freely,” implying constraints within his former party. He also praised Banerjee’s work in the Dooars region.

Barla, who represented Alipurduar for the BJP from 2019 to 2024, was dropped by the party in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Since then, he has publicly diverged from the BJP line. His rise from tea garden worker to Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs (2021-2024) is well-documented.

The BJP, however, downplayed the significance of Barla’s actions. Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari dismissed Barla, claiming he’s no longer a BJP member and lacks significant political influence. The BJP’s assertion comes after a membership drive last October.

The TMC, however, sees Barla’s potential defection as a boost to their prospects in North Bengal, a region where the BJP has traditionally held sway. This follows a pattern of BJP MLAs joining the TMC since the 2021 Assembly elections. The recent TMC victory in the Madarihat bypoll, previously a BJP stronghold, further underscores the shifting political landscape in the region. The situation will continue to be closely monitored as speculation surrounding Barla’s political future remains high.

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