The BJP supporters were protesting the alleged gang rape of an elderly nun in Nadia that has triggered nationwide outrage.
A senior Howrah police officer said Sawfi, who was Kolkata-bound, got down from his vehicle and requested the protesters to lift the blockade at Jelepara More but they refused.
The accompanying security personnel then escorted the minister back to his car and the convoy turned back taking another route through Howrah town, the officer said.
