Former Railway Minister and Political Veteran Mukul Roy Passes Away in Kolkata
Mukul Roy, a prominent figure in West Bengal politics and former Union Railway Minister, has died at the age of 71 in Kolkata. His passing marks the end of a significant chapter in the state's political landscape, where he played a pivotal role for decades.
A Key Figure in Trinamool Congress and BJP
Roy was once a close confidant of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, serving as a senior leader in the Trinamool Congress (TMC). He was instrumental in building the party's organizational strength and was widely regarded as one of its chief strategists. However, in a major political shift, he left the TMC and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2017, becoming a notable defector in Bengal's volatile political arena.
His tenure as Railway Minister from 2012 to 2014 under the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government was marked by several initiatives aimed at modernizing India's rail infrastructure. Despite his later move to the BJP, his contributions during this period remain a part of his political legacy.
Health Issues and Final Days
In recent years, Roy had been battling health complications, which reportedly worsened leading to his demise. He was admitted to a hospital in Kolkata where he received medical treatment, but could not recover. The news of his death has sent shockwaves through political circles in West Bengal and beyond, with leaders from various parties expressing their condolences.
His political journey saw him navigate complex alliances and rivalries, making him a subject of intense media scrutiny and public interest. From being a trusted aide to Mamata Banerjee to switching sides and aligning with the BJP, Roy's career was characterized by dramatic turns that reflected the evolving dynamics of Bengal politics.
Reactions and Legacy
Political figures have begun paying tributes, highlighting his role in shaping contemporary West Bengal politics. While some remember him as a shrewd organizer who helped strengthen the TMC, others note his impact in the BJP's efforts to expand its footprint in the state. His death is seen as a loss of experience and insight in a region known for its fierce electoral battles.
As details about funeral arrangements emerge, the focus remains on his enduring influence. Mukul Roy's life story serves as a testament to the fluid nature of Indian politics, where loyalties and positions can shift, but the mark left on governance and party machinery often endures.
