It is always better to build infrastructure/modify timings than to take those alternatives. I think it is also result of platform unavailability at NJP. DM takes PF#1/1A at NJP and so does Padatik and other weekly trains like GR, AC Exp, DBRG Exp etc. The delay of all morning trains in MLDT-KNE probably causes a chain of detention in AUB-NJP as all of those trains take 1 or 1A at NJP.
I liked older Padatik, the one without stop at Malda. It used to seem so aggressive. Apparently, many good thing about IR resides in the past. There is just degradation with time.