Mukul Roy dies at 71: His journey from Trinamool's backroom brain to BJP strategist

Mukul Roy, a prominent Indian politician and former leader of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), passed away at the age of 71. Known for his close association with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Roy played a pivotal role in the TMC's rise to power in the state during its early years. His political acumen and strategic thinking positioned him as the second-most influential figure in the party, particularly during its formative period. In a significant turn of events, Roy later joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), where he continued to influence West Bengal's political landscape. His journey reflected the shifting dynamics within Indian politics, particularly in the context of the rivalry between the TMC and BJP. Roy's death marks the end of an era for the TMC, where he was not just a key strategist but also a trusted confidant of Banerjee. His contributions to the political scene in West Bengal are likely to be remembered as both significant and controversial, given the polarized nature of state politics. As tributes pour in from various political leaders, the impact of his departure on the current political climate remains to be seen.