Veteran Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader Sitaram Yechury passed away on Thursday, August 24, 2023, at the age of 72. Yechury, a prominent figure in Indian politics, had been battling a prolonged illness. His passing marks the end of an era for the CPI(M) and leaves a void in the Indian political landscape.
Yechury had been admitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi on August 19 for treatment of a pneumonia-like chest infection. His condition had been critical for the past few days, and he was receiving treatment in the intensive care unit (ICU).
The news of Yechury’s passing was met with an outpouring of grief from politicians across party lines, who expressed their condolences and acknowledged his contributions to Indian politics.
Rahul Gandhi, leader of the Indian National Congress, wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter): “Sitaram Yechury ji was a friend. A protector of the Idea of India with a deep understanding of our country. I will miss the long discussions we used to have. My sincere condolences to his family, friends, and followers in this hour of grief.”
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju also expressed his condolences, stating: “I am deeply saddened by the tragic demise of veteran CPM leader, Sitaram Yechury ji. We had many years of working relations in the Parliament. Extending my deepest condolences to his family, colleagues and admirers.”
Former Union Minister and BJP leader Rajeev Chandrasekhar wrote: “Saddened to hear abt the passing of Sitaram Yechury who was a colleague in Parliament with me some years ago. My deepest condolences to his family and supporters.”
Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh paid tribute to Yechury, highlighting his multifaceted personality: “Sitaram Yechury – a very fine human being, a multilingual bibliophile, an unrepentant Marxist with a pragmatic streak, a pillar of the CPM, and a superb Parliamentarian with a wonderful wit and sense of humour – is most sadly no more. Our association stretched over three decades, and we collaborated closely at different occasions. He had friends across the political spectrum and was admired for the strength of his convictions and for his most engaging personality. Salaam Tovarish. You have left us much too early but you enriched public life immeasurably and will not be forgotten.”
Yechury’s passing is a significant loss for the CPI(M) and Indian politics. He was a towering figure in the party, known for his sharp intellect, political acumen, and commitment to his ideology. His contributions to Indian politics will be remembered for generations to come.
