Why Did Veteran Congress Leader from North Bengal Join Trinamool?
Synopsis
In a significant political shift, veteran Congress leader Sankar Malakar has transitioned to the Trinamool Congress, highlighting the ongoing political dynamics in North Bengal. His decision raises questions about the BJP's influence in the region and the future of Congress in West Bengal, especially ahead of the upcoming Assembly polls.
Key Takeaways
Sankar Malakar transitions from Congress to Trinamool Congress .
Malakar's decision highlights the political dynamics in north Bengal .
Concerns about the BJP's influence in the region.
Trinamool Congress anticipates more leaders joining ahead of Assembly polls .
Malakar's past role as a Congress leader reflects the shifting political landscape.
Kolkata, June 4 (NationPress) Veteran Congress leader from north Bengal, Sankar Malakar, officially joined the ruling Trinamool Congress on Wednesday. This marks the second significant defection from north Bengal in recent months, following the former BJP MP from Alipurduar, John Barla.
Malakar made his way to Trinamool Bhavan, the party’s state headquarters in Kolkata, where he was welcomed into the party by Subrata Bakshi, the state President, along with Arup Biswas, the state Power Minister, and Jaiprakash Majumdar, the Vice President.
From 2011 to 2021, Malakar served as a Congress legislator representing the Matigara-Naxalbari (SC) assembly constituency in Darjeeling district. He faced defeat in the 2021 Assembly polls against BJP’s Anandamoy Biswas.
For nearly two decades, he held the position of district Congress president in Darjeeling, earning recognition for sustaining the party's organizational structure in the area, even as Congress struggled in various regions across West Bengal.
After his transition to Trinamool, Malakar expressed concerns about the BJP's rising influence in north Bengal, attributing it to Congress's weakening presence. He remarked, "The BJP aims to divide north Bengal, supporting separatist movements like Gorkhaland and Kamtapur. This must be halted. The Congress lacks the political strength to counter the BJP in West Bengal, leading to my decision to join Trinamool Congress."
Following Malakar’s induction, Arup Biswas hinted at the potential arrival of more influential leaders from different parties before the upcoming crucial Assembly polls next year, stating, "Just wait and watch. We are not reaching out to anyone specifically; instead, we will embrace anyone who wishes to join us voluntarily."
Point of View
The transition of Sankar Malakar from Congress to Trinamool Congress reflects a broader trend of political realignment in West Bengal. As parties vie for dominance, it is crucial to analyze the implications of such moves on regional stability and electoral outcomes. The Nation remains committed to providing unbiased coverage of these developments, ensuring that our audience is well-informed.
NationPress
3 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Sankar Malakar leave Congress?
Sankar Malakar joined Trinamool Congress due to the weakening position of Congress in north Bengal, which he believes has allowed BJP to gain strength in the region.
Who welcomed Malakar into Trinamool Congress?
Malakar was officially welcomed by Trinamool state President Subrata Bakshi, Power Minister Arup Biswas, and Vice President Jaiprakash Majumdar.
What was Malakar's previous political role?
He served as a Congress legislator for the Matigara-Naxalbari (SC) assembly constituency from 2011 to 2021.
What concerns did Malakar express after joining Trinamool?
He expressed concerns about the BJP's attempts to divide north Bengal and the lack of Congress's strength to combat BJP's influence.
Are more leaders expected to join Trinamool?
Yes, Arup Biswas hinted that more heavyweight leaders from other parties might join Trinamool before the upcoming Assembly polls.
