The political circles in West Bengal are mourning the demise of Mukul Roy, a towering figure whose career spanned party lines and high offices. The 73-year-old former Union Minister and Trinamool Congress co-founder died in a Kolkata private hospital on Monday morning, as confirmed by his family.
Subhranshu Roy, his son, shared that the end came shortly after 1:30 AM following prolonged health struggles. Insiders noted that multiple ailments had kept him under medical care, but recovery proved elusive.
Roy’s journey began in the nascent days of TMC. As Mamata Banerjee’s closest aide, he was instrumental in its formation, being one of the pioneers who filed for recognition with the Election Commission post her Congress split. His influence peaked as party general secretary and a key player in TMC’s UPA alliance, where he managed ministries like Railways, Shipping, and Urban Development with notable efficiency.
Tensions with Banerjee led to his marginalization—first losing his top post, then fading from party activities. By 2017, he defected to BJP, quitting Rajya Sabha. In 2021, he secured victory in Krishnanagar Uttar for BJP but rejoined TMC soon after their electoral triumph, without vacating the seat.
This flip-flop sparked legal battles. Speaker Biman Banerjee upheld his membership, even chairing him over PAC. BJP’s High Court petition succeeded in November 2024, disqualifying him, only for the Supreme Court to intervene with a stay in January 2025.
From architect of TMC’s rise to a symbol of political fluidity, Roy’s legacy is complex. Rivals and allies alike recall his sharp intellect and negotiation skills. As condolences flood in, Bengal politics reflects on a life of bold moves and unbreakable ambition.