In a significant loss to West Bengal’s political landscape, Mukul Roy, former Railway Minister and senior leader of the All India Trinamool Congress, passed away following a cardiac arrest in Kolkata. He was admitted to Apollo Hospital Kolkata, where he breathed his last around 1.30 am, as confirmed by his son Subhranshu Roy.

The news of Mukul Roy’s demise has sent shockwaves across political circles, not just in West Bengal but at the national level. Known for his strategic acumen and organisational skills, Roy was once regarded as the second-most powerful figure in the TMC after Mamata Banerjee.

A Political Journey Rooted in Youth Congress

Mukul Roy began his political career in West Bengal as a member of the Youth Congress. In his early years, he built strong grassroots connections and developed a reputation as an effective organiser. His association with Mamata Banerjee began during a turbulent period in Bengal politics when she decided to part ways with the Congress and form her own party.

When the All India Trinamool Congress was established in 1998, Roy played a key role in laying down its organisational structure. He was instrumental in mobilising cadres and strengthening the party’s base across districts. Recognising his contributions, Mamata Banerjee appointed him as the party’s general secretary.

Over the years, he emerged as one of the TMC’s most trusted lieutenants and became its voice in New Delhi.

Rise in National Politics

Roy’s growing influence led to his election to the Rajya Sabha in 2006. Between 2009 and 2012, he served as the party’s leader in the Upper House, representing TMC’s interests at the national level.

During the second term of the United Progressive Alliance government, Roy joined the Union Council of Ministers. Initially appointed as Minister of State for Shipping, he later rose to become the Railway Minister in March 2012, succeeding his party colleague Dinesh Trivedi.

As Railway Minister, Roy oversaw key administrative responsibilities in one of the country’s largest public sector undertakings. His tenure came at a time when railway reforms and fiscal management were under intense public scrutiny.

Shifting Political Allegiances

In 2017, Mukul Roy made a dramatic political move by leaving the TMC and joining the Bharatiya Janata Party. At the time, he stated that the people of West Bengal were seeking an alternative to Mamata Banerjee’s leadership.

His entry into the BJP was seen as a strategic gain for the party, as Roy possessed deep organisational knowledge of TMC’s structure and operations. In the 2021 West Bengal Assembly elections, he contested from the Krishnanagar Uttar seat on a BJP ticket and defeated TMC candidate Koushani Mukherjee.

However, his association with the BJP was short-lived. Later in 2021, Roy returned to the Trinamool Congress, marking yet another significant turn in his political career.

Legal Battle and Anti-Defection Case

Roy’s return to TMC triggered legal challenges. In November 2025, the Calcutta High Court ruled that he should be disqualified as a Member of the Legislative Assembly under the anti-defection law. The court observed that since Roy was elected in 2021 as a BJP MLA, his return to TMC violated constitutional provisions governing party defection.

However, the matter did not end there. In January 2026, the Supreme Court of India granted a stay on the High Court’s order, putting the disqualification on hold. This decision allowed Roy to continue as an MLA pending further legal proceedings.

The episode highlighted the complex nature of party politics in West Bengal and underscored the legal implications of shifting allegiances.

PM Modi Expresses Anguish

Following news of his demise, Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow. In a post on X, the Prime Minister said he was deeply saddened by the passing of the former Union Minister and noted that Roy’s vast political experience and contributions to social service would be remembered.

Condolences poured in from leaders across party lines, reflecting Roy’s wide network and long-standing presence in Indian politics.

A Strategist Behind the Scenes

While Mukul Roy often maintained a low public profile compared to other prominent leaders, he was widely acknowledged as a master strategist. Within TMC, he was considered the architect of many electoral strategies during the party’s early growth phase.

His organisational skills were particularly evident during TMC’s rise in West Bengal, culminating in Mamata Banerjee’s historic victory in 2011, which ended decades of Left Front rule.

Even during his stint with the BJP, Roy’s knowledge of Bengal’s political terrain was regarded as a valuable asset.

Legacy in Bengal Politics

Mukul Roy’s political journey—from Youth Congress worker to TMC founding member, from Union Minister to BJP leader and back to TMC—reflects the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of Indian politics.

His career spanned multiple ideological shifts, legal battles, and electoral contests. Yet, throughout his journey, he remained a key figure in shaping Bengal’s contemporary political narrative.

His passing marks the end of an era for many who witnessed the transformation of West Bengal politics over the last three decades. Supporters remember him as a loyal organiser and strategist, while critics acknowledge his influence and adaptability in a highly competitive political environment.

Conclusion

The death of Mukul Roy is not just the loss of a senior politician but also the closing of a significant chapter in West Bengal’s political history. From his early days in the Youth Congress to becoming Railway Minister and a founding pillar of TMC, his journey was marked by resilience, controversy, and strategic brilliance.

As tributes continue to pour in, Mukul Roy’s contributions to public life, parliamentary politics, and organisational leadership will remain an integral part of India’s political memory.

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