John Barla's possible switch to TMC creates stir ahead of Madarihat by-election

Speculation is increasing around former Union Minister John Barla’s potential shift to the Trinamool Congress (TMC) ahead of the Madarihat assembly by-election, set for November 13. The speculation intensified following a recent meeting between Barla and TMC leaders, including State Secretary Dipen Pramanik and District Spokesperson Dulal Debnath, at Barla’s residence located in Lakshmipara Tea Garden, Banarhat. This meeting is seen as significant within political circles, raising questions about Barla's future commitment to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Barla, who has previously served as a prominent BJP figure in West Bengal, has notably been absent from the party's campaign activities in the lead-up to the by-election. He has publicly voiced concerns regarding the leadership structure of the BJP, criticizing it for a lack of inclusive decision-making. Barla remarked that the party seems to operate without adequate communication among its members, stating that if he were to engage in the campaign, it might provoke tensions among the Gorkha and Adivasi communities.

The Madarihat constituency is vital for both the BJP and TMC, encompassing two gram panchayats from the Banarhat block in Jalpaiguri district: Binnaguri and Sakoajhora. Historically, this area has seen competitive elections between the two parties, with the BJP aiming to consolidate its hold on the constituency. The TMC, on the other hand, is focused on reclaiming influence in the region, particularly as the state prepares for the 2026 assembly elections.

Adding complexity to the situation, Barla's sister, Merina Kuju, joined TMC after being denied a ticket for the assembly by-election. She had previously won a seat in the 2018 panchayat elections from the Sulkapara area on a BJP ticket. Her shift to TMC may have implications for Barla’s standing within the BJP and could potentially sway public opinion. Meanwhile, BJP leaders, including Shankar Ghosh, have reiterated their commitment to the upcoming elections, asserting that the party is mobilizing its resources and efforts to ensure victory in Madarihat.