West Bengal’s political landscape mourns the loss of Mukul Roy, the ex-Railway Minister whose career bridged eras and parties. Abhishek Banerjee, Trinamool Youth Congress chief and CM Mamata Banerjee’s nephew, articulated the sentiment on X: ‘Mukul Roy’s demise marks the end of a defining era in Bengal’s political history.’
Praising Roy’s vast experience, Banerjee noted his crucial contributions to the state’s political and public spheres. As a cornerstone of AITC’s foundation, Roy was vital in its expansion during nascent days. ‘His commitment to public life will be cherished eternally,’ Banerjee said, offering condolences to grieving kin and followers, and praying for the soul’s peace.
From the BJP side, Suvendu Adhikari lauded Roy’s dual legacy with TMC and BJP. ‘He was the driving force behind BJP’s best phase in Bengal from 2018-2020,’ Adhikari posted on X, invoking prayers.
Delving into history, Roy was Mamata’s right-hand man, TMC general secretary, and part of the core group that filed for party recognition post her Congress exit in the 1990s. State Congress leaders’ backing solidified its base. His dramatic 2017 shift to BJP altered electoral equations significantly.
Nationwide leaders have condoled, reflecting Roy’s stature. This event invites contemplation on political migrations, loyalties tested by ambition, and the architects who build—and sometimes dismantle—political empires in one of India’s most volatile states.