Agartala – In what appears to be a growing wave of desertion from the BJP in Tripura, two separate political developments have sent shockwaves across the state’s political circles. Within just 24 hours, 11 labourers from Dharmanagar and 50 youths from Badharghat abandoned the BJP and formally joined the opposition camps of CPI(M) and Congress.
Observers say this double blow reflects a silent but significant exodus from the ruling party, as dissatisfaction among its grassroots workers begins to spill over into rival party folds ahead of crucial political battles.
Labourers Leave BJP, Join CPI(M) in Dharmanagar
The first jolt came in Dharmanagar, where 11 labourers associated with the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangha (BMS)—the labour arm of the BJP—announced their decision to quit and align with the CPI(M). The switch took place during a CITU-organized conference in the Ananda Bazar zone of Dharmanagar subdivision.
The workers, once loyal to the BJP’s labour front, accepted the red flag of CPI(M) in a symbolic gesture of allegiance. The joining ceremony was attended by prominent CPI(M) leaders including Abhijeet De (District Committee Secretary), Prasanna Tripura (District Committee Member), and Shailendra Nath (MLA, Jubarajnagar).
Speaking at the programme, CPI(M) leaders welcomed the new members, calling it a sign of growing frustration with the BJP’s neglect of workers’ issues. They vowed to continue fighting for labour rights and assured that the newcomers would be given opportunities to work actively within the organisation.
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50 Youths in Badharghat Switch to Congress
In a separate development the very next day, 50 youths from Badharghat, who had been actively working for the BJP until now, shifted allegiance to the Congress party.
The formal joining programme was held in Badharghat, organised jointly by Badharghat Block Congress President Sanjib Chowdhury and Bardowali Block Congress President Dipak Paul. The new entrants were formally inducted into the party by Tripura Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) President Asish Kumar Saha, who handed over the Congress party flag.
Addressing the gathering, Saha said the desertions showed that people, especially the youth, are increasingly disillusioned with the BJP’s functioning. He urged the new members to work sincerely for Congress, remain in close contact with grassroots leadership, and dedicate themselves to the welfare of people in their constituencies.
The block Congress presidents also welcomed the youths, highlighting that the party’s strength lies in its ability to connect with people’s aspirations and frustrations.
Growing Political Significance
The back-to-back defections are being seen as a setback for the BJP and a boost for the opposition camp in Tripura. Political analysts point out that while the number of defectors may appear modest, the symbolic impact is large, as both groups represent the working class and the youth—two vital demographics in state politics.
If the trend of desertions continues, it could alter the political landscape in Tripura ahead of upcoming elections. Both CPI(M) and Congress are expected to capitalise on these shifts to strengthen their grassroots network.
Conclusion
The developments in Dharmanagar and Badharghat have sparked fresh debates on the BJP’s internal challenges and its ability to retain the confidence of its supporters. With CPI(M) gaining strength among workers and Congress wooing the youth, Tripura’s political equations are becoming increasingly volatile.
As the state heads toward an intense festive season and future electoral battles, all eyes are now on whether this exodus is just the beginning of a larger churn in the BJP’s support base.


