'Was my long-time political colleague': CM Mamata Banerjee 'deeply shocked', says Mukul Roy’s death leaves her heartbroken

The passing of Mukul Roy at 71 has drawn emotional tributes from across the political spectrum, with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee leading the condolences.

Mamata Banerjee: ‘Heartbroken by his departure’

Reacting to the news, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee shared a heartfelt message on X, describing Roy as a long-time political colleague and “comrade-in-arms in many political struggles.” She said she was “deeply shocked and grieved” by his sudden demise and added that the news had left her heartbroken.

I am deeply shocked and grieved by the sudden news of the demise of veteran politician Mukul Roy. He was my long-time political colleague and a comrade-in-arms in many political struggles. The news of his departure has left me heartbroken.”

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“The late Mukul Roy devoted his life to the party from the very inception of the Trinamool Congress. He served as a Union Minister and enjoyed acceptability across all levels of the party. Later, he took a different path, only to return again. His contributions to Bengal's politics and his organisational acumen are unforgettable. Regardless of party affiliations, the political circles will feel his absence.”

Extending condolences to his family and admirers, she also addressed his son, writing, “I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family and admirers of this experienced leader and colleague. I will tell Shubhranshu: Steel yourself: In this crisis, we are with you.”

Abhishek Banerjee: ‘End of an era’

Reacting to his demise, Abhishek Banerjee, All India General Secretary of the All India Trinamool Congress, wrote on X that Roy’s death “marks the end of an era in Bengal’s political history.” Calling him a veteran leader with vast experience, Banerjee said, “The demise of Mukul Roy marks the end of an era in Bengal’s political history. A veteran leader with vast experience. His contributions helped shape an important phase of the state’s public and political journey.”

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“As a founding pillar of the All India Trinamool Congress, he was instrumental in expanding and consolidating the organisation during its formative years. His dedication to public life will be recalled with admiration. I extend my sincere sympathies to his family, friends and admirers. May his soul be granted eternal peace.”

Initially, he was recognised as one of the major architects of the Trinamool Congress. He played a crucial role in the party’s victory in the 2011 West Bengal Assembly Elections. However, he was later expelled from the party in 2017 due to the Narada sting operation scandal and later joined the Bharatiya Janata Party in November of the same year. He became the National Vice President in 2020.

Later, he contested the 2021 Assembly Elections as a BJP candidate but rejoined the Trinamool Congress party after the election results. After the 2021 elections, he reduced his political activities due to his deteriorating health.