Former Union Minister Mukul Roy, a key TMC strategist, passes away at 71
Veteran politician Mukul Roy, former Union Railway Minister and a pivotal strategist for the Trinamool Congress (TMC), passed away at the age of 71 on February 23, 2026. He died of a cardiac arrest at Apollo Hospital in Kolkata after a prolonged illness, including dementia and Parkinson's disease. Roy's career was marked by significant political shifts, including stints with the Indian National Congress, TMC, and BJP, and he was instrumental in the TMC's rise to power in West Bengal.
Key Highlights
- Mukul Roy, former Union Railway Minister, passed away at 71.
- He died due to cardiac arrest after a prolonged illness.
- Roy was a founding member and key strategist of the TMC.
- His political career saw shifts between TMC, BJP, and Congress.
- He served as Minister of State for Shipping and later Railways.
- Roy was often called the 'Chanakya of Bengal politics'.
Mukul Roy, a prominent figure in Indian politics and a former Union Railway Minister, passed away on February 23, 2026, at the age of 71. The veteran leader died of a cardiac arrest at Apollo Hospital in Salt Lake, Kolkata, following a prolonged period of illness. His son, Subhranshu Roy, confirmed the news. Roy had been battling multiple health issues, including dementia and Parkinson's disease, and had been admitted to the hospital for an extended period, reportedly being in a coma for several days before his demise.
Roy was a foundational member of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and was widely regarded as Mamata Banerjee's close confidante and the party's principal strategist, often referred to as the 'Chanakya of Bengal politics.' His political acumen was instrumental in the TMC's historic victory in the 2011 West Bengal Assembly elections, which ended the 34-year rule of the Left Front. He played a crucial role in expanding and consolidating the party's reach across the state.
His career was marked by significant political shifts and alliances. Roy began his political journey with the Indian National Congress and was a founding member of the TMC when it was established in January 1998. He later joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in November 2017, serving as its national vice-president. However, in June 2021, he rejoined the TMC. These transitions were often accompanied by political controversies, including a protracted legal battle over defection, which eventually led to his disqualification as an MLA by the Calcutta High Court in November 2025, though the Supreme Court later stayed this order. Amidst these political maneuvers, his health deteriorated significantly in the years leading up to his death.
At the national level, Mukul Roy served in the UPA-II government. He held the position of Minister of State for Shipping from 2009 to 2011 and subsequently took on the role of Union Minister of Railways from March to September 2012, succeeding Dinesh Trivedi. His tenure as Railway Minister was brief and marked by controversy over proposed fare hikes.
Condolences poured in from across the political spectrum. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee described Roy as her 'long-time political colleague and a comrade-in-arms,' expressing deep shock and grief over his passing. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also condoled his death, remembering him for his 'political experience and efforts to serve society.' Leaders from both the TMC and BJP acknowledged his significant contributions and influence on West Bengal's political landscape.
Mukul Roy's legacy is that of a master strategist who navigated complex political terrains, significantly shaping the political narrative of West Bengal. His career, though marked by shifts and controversies, underscored his deep understanding of political dynamics and organizational management, leaving a lasting imprint on Indian politics, particularly in West Bengal.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Mukul Roy pass away?
Mukul Roy passed away on February 23, 2026.
What was the cause of Mukul Roy's death?
Mukul Roy died of cardiac arrest after a prolonged illness, including dementia and Parkinson's disease.
What was Mukul Roy's role in Indian politics?
Mukul Roy was a prominent Indian politician, former Union Railway Minister, and a key strategist for the Trinamool Congress (TMC). He also had stints with the Indian National Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
What significant achievements is Mukul Roy known for?
He is credited with being a founding member and chief strategist of the TMC, playing a crucial role in its 2011 victory that ended the Left Front's rule in West Bengal. He also served as Union Minister of State for Shipping and later as Union Minister of Railways.
Did Mukul Roy change his political party affiliation?
Yes, Mukul Roy had a dynamic political career that included being a founding member of the TMC, joining the BJP in 2017, and later rejoining the TMC in 2021.