2018 Asian Games champion Swapna Barman has decided to join politics. On Friday, February 27, 2026, Barman joined the Trinamool Congress (TMC) inducted by ministers Bratya Basu and Chandrima Bhattacharya in Kolkata. The decision comes in light of the upcoming 2026 West Bengal elections.
Barman says her decision to join TMC comes from drawing inspiration from the party’s developmental workings. In an interview with The Indian Express, Barman stated, “Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s multifaceted development work has deeply inspired me. I joined the Trinamool Congress today to join her work.”
“The way Mamata Banerjee rose from the grassroots and elevated Bengal to its present stature is something rarely possible elsewhere. The way she works for the people is unparalleled. I wanted to be a part of her development efforts. I was motivated by the various schemes and initiatives she implemented for the people of Bengal. I feel that this will be a big platform for me to work for the people, and this is why I decided to join the party,” she added.
In January 2026, Mamata honoured Barman achievements during the foundation stone-laying ceremony of Mahakal Temple in Siliguri. The Chief Minister had addressed the Asian medallist saying that her passion and love for the sport has given the nation a proud moment in Heptathlon.
The Chief Minister said, “Swapna has made the country proud on the international stage. Her journey from Ghoshpara near Jalpaiguri to becoming an international sporting champion is a testament to the indomitable spirit of Bengal’s youth.”
Barman’s story of a Heptathlete
Barman is a 2019 Arjuna awardee whose inclusion in politics comes after rumors of her potential future surfaced while she was spotted talking with the Chief Minister during a recent public event.
Hailing from the Jalpaiguri district of West Bengal, Barman is a Heptathlete. In addition to the Asian Games gold, she has three medals from the Asian Championship event and a silver at the Asian Indoor Championships. The Indian Heptathlete was born with six toes on each foot.
Heptathlon comes under the athletic category which is particular for women. Each athlete takes part in seven events including 100 metres hurdles, high jump, shot-put, 200 metres, long jump, javelin, and 800 metres race. Only those players with physical stamina and those who can do tough work can play the sport.
Due to her condition, she requires special shoes to run but faced by financial hardship the athlete managed herself and competed with full determination and focus. The challenges and hardships that she faced led her through to a notable career as a Heptathlete.
