'Pained by his passing': PM Modi mourns Mukul Roy's death, calls him a 'leader who served society'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday expressed grief over the death of veteran politician and former Union Minister Mukul Roy, remembering his long political career and contribution to public life.

In a post on X, he wrote, "Pained by the passing of former Union Minister Shri Mukul Roy Ji. He will be remembered for his political experience and efforts to serve society. Condolences to his family and supporters. Om Shanti."

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Roy passed away at 1.30 am on Monday at a hospital in Kolkata after battling multiple health complications for a prolonged period. He was 71.

A key strategist in Bengal politics

Mukul Roy was widely regarded as one of the most influential political organisers in West Bengal. A close associate and trusted confidant of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, he played a central role in shaping the All India Trinamool Congress during its formative years.

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Often referred to as the "Chanakya" of Bengal politics, Roy was known for his organisational skills and strategic planning. He worked alongside Banerjee during major political movements such as Singur and Nandigram, which contributed significantly to the party's rise and eventual victory in the state.

Before entering the Trinamool Congress, Roy was associated with the Congress party. Over the years, his political journey saw major shifts; he joined the Bharatiya Janata Party in 2017 before returning to the TMC in 2021. In November 2025, the Calcutta High Court terminated his MLA membership on grounds of defection. During his career, he was also questioned by the CBI in connection with the Saradha chit fund case.

Role at the national level

Roy served as Minister of State in the Ministry of Shipping and later in the Ministry of Railways during the UPA-II government. After Mamata Banerjee stepped down as Railway Minister to assume office as Chief Minister, Roy was given additional charge of the Railways Ministry.

Health struggles and final years

In recent years, Roy had stepped back from active politics due to declining health. Doctors confirmed in early 2023 that he had been battling dementia and Parkinson's disease, reported News 18.

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He underwent brain surgery for hydrocephalus in March 2023. His condition worsened in July 2024 following a fall at home that required surgery to remove a blood clot, as per the News 18 report. He also suffered from chronic diabetes, respiratory distress and persistently high blood sugar levels.