Barrackpore, West Bengal – March 29, 2024
In a significant political gesture, BJP Member of Parliament Arjun Singh paid a visit to veteran Trinamool Congress leader Mukul Roy seeking his blessings for the impending Lok Sabha elections. Singh, who is set to contest from Barrackpore constituency, shared pictures on his social media platforms capturing the solemn moment of seeking blessings from Roy, who appeared frail in the images.
Mukul Roy, once dubbed the ‘Chanakya of Bengal politics’ and a pivotal figure in the Trinamool Congress, welcomed Singh at his residence. Roy, who had switched allegiance to the BJP in 2017 citing discord with the TMC leadership, later returned to the Trinamool fold following the 2021 West Bengal Assembly elections. However, speculations about his potential rejoining of the BJP emerged in April 2023 when he visited New Delhi for personal reasons.
Amidst rumors and conflicting statements regarding his political affiliation, Roy’s family disclosed his battle with Parkinson’s disease and dementia last year. This revelation shed light on his limited public appearances and raised concerns about his health condition.
Arjun Singh, who himself had a brief stint with the Trinamool Congress before rejoining the BJP, emphasized that his meeting with Roy was devoid of any political discussions. Singh expressed his reverence for Roy’s guidance and shared that the veteran leader blessed him with words of victory, stating, “bijoy bhabo” (be victorious).
The visit underscores the intricate dynamics of Bengal politics as parties gear up for the upcoming electoral battle. With the blessings sought, Singh’s gesture carries symbolic significance in the political landscape of West Bengal.
Nisham Ismail