Condolences Pour In from Leaders
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief on X, stating, “Pained by the passing of former Union Minister Shri Mukul Roy Ji. He will be remembered for his political experience and efforts to serve society. Condolences to his family and supporters. Om Shanti.”
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, his long-time political colleague, called his demise “shocking and heartbreaking” and recalled his tireless efforts in building the Trinamool Congress since its founding. Banerjee highlighted Roy’s wide acceptance within the party and his role as a comrade in many political struggles.
Mukul Roy’s Political Journey
Hailing from Kanchrapara in North 24 Parganas, Mukul Roy began his career with the Congress party before co-founding the Trinamool Congress in 1998 alongside Mamata Banerjee. He submitted the official party symbol to the Election Commission and served as a key organizer and strategist, often referred to as the “Chanakya of West Bengal politics.”
Roy served as Union Railway Minister from March to September 2012. Over the years, he played a critical role in attracting leaders from the Congress to the Trinamool Congress and was instrumental in strengthening the party’s organizational structure.
Party Switches and Legislative Role
In 2017, Roy joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and significantly contributed to the party’s performance in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, helping the BJP win 18 of 42 seats in West Bengal. He won the 2021 Assembly elections from Krishnanagar North on a BJP ticket, becoming an MLA.
Later, he returned to the Trinamool Congress while retaining his MLA status on paper, leading to legal disputes over his disqualification. He was also appointed chairman of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), highlighting his legislative influence despite health challenges that kept him away from active politics in recent years.
Legacy and Impact
Mukul Roy is credited with reshaping West Bengal politics by encouraging strategic defections and strengthening party influence over state administration. His political acumen and ability to navigate complex party dynamics earned him respect across party lines. Analysts say his departure marks the end of an era in the state’s political landscape.
