Veteran West Bengal politician Mukul Roy, a key figure in the state’s politics and once a close aide of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, passed away at the age of 71. He breathed his last early on Monday at Apollo Hospital, Salt Lake, Kolkata, due to a cardiac arrest, confirmed his son, Subhrangshu Roy.
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Early Life and Political Beginnings
Mukul Roy began his political journey with the Youth Congress, laying the foundation for a career spanning decades. His early association with Congress introduced him to the world of politics, and he quickly became known for his organisational skills and strategic thinking.
Rise with Trinamool Congress
When Trinamool Congress (TMC) was founded in 1998 by Mamata Banerjee, Mukul Roy was one of the founding members. He quickly became a core strategist and held key positions, including General Secretary of TMC. His role was not just limited to West Bengal. In 2006, he was elected to the Rajya Sabha and later served as Minister of State for Shipping and Minister of Railways during the UPA II government. His work in these portfolios strengthened his reputation as a skilled and experienced leader.
Political Shift and Later Years
In 2017, Mukul Roy made a significant political shift by joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He played a key role in building the party’s base in West Bengal, helping BJP achieve 18 seats in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. In 2021, he contested the West Bengal Assembly elections on a BJP ticket from Krishnanagar North and won. Later, he returned to TMC, which stirred political debate but reflected his enduring influence in state politics.
Health Struggles and Legal Challenges
In his final years, Mukul Roy faced serious health issues, including dementia and Parkinson’s disease, which limited his active participation in politics.He also faced legal challenges; in 2025, the Calcutta High Court disqualified him as an MLA under the anti-defection law after switching parties after the 2021 elections.
