Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his profound grief over the demise of CPI(M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury, calling him "a leading light of the Left" and a figure who made significant contributions to Indian politics. Modi highlighted Yechury’s ability to build bridges across political ideologies and praised his role as an impactful parliamentarian. "Saddened by the passing away of Shri Sitaram Yechury ji. He was a leading light of the Left and was known for his ability to connect across the political spectrum. He also made a mark as an effective Parliamentarian. My thoughts are with his family and admirers in this sad hour. Om Shanti," the Prime Minister expressed in a heartfelt social media post.
Yechury, who was 72, passed away at AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences) in Delhi after battling a prolonged illness. His passing marks the end of an era in Indian political discourse, particularly for the Leftist movement, where he was a towering figure. Known for his eloquence, sharp intellect, and firm yet respectful engagement with political adversaries, Yechury's contributions to public life spanned over decades. He rose from being a student leader during his days in Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) to becoming one of the most prominent faces of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and a respected voice in Indian politics.
President Droupadi Murmu also paid tribute to Yechury, acknowledging his deep commitment to ideology while emphasizing his rare ability to transcend political divides and make lasting friendships across party lines. She noted that Yechury was an influential figure, not just within the Left, but across the entire political spectrum. In her statement, Murmu said, "Saddened to learn about the demise of CPI(M) General Secretary Shri Sitaram Yechury. First as a student leader and then in national politics and as a parliamentarian, he had a distinct and influential voice. Though a committed ideologue, he won friends cutting across the party lines. My heartfelt condolences to his family and colleagues."
Political leaders from across India expressed their sorrow and paid homage to Yechury’s legacy. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, in a personal tribute, called Yechury "a friend" and "a protector of the Idea of India." Gandhi reminisced about the thoughtful and insightful discussions they shared over the years, describing Yechury as a leader with a deep understanding of India's socio-political landscape. "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," Gandhi tweeted, underscoring the personal and political loss Yechury’s death represents.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also reflected on Yechury’s passing, lauding him as a leader who deftly balanced personal relationships with his unwavering dedication to his political beliefs. Kharge noted that Yechury was a humble leader who carved out a unique space in Indian politics, balancing ideological rigor with pragmatism. "My heartfelt condolences on the passing away of Comrade Sitaram Yechury ji. He was a humble leader who chartered the unique territory of balancing personal equations with unflinching political ideologies. An excellent Parliamentarian and an outstanding intellectual, he served the people of India with pragmatism blended with idealism," Kharge expressed in his tribute.
Kharge emphasized the significant role Yechury played in shaping India’s political discourse, noting that his voice resonated with progressive forces across the country. "It is a great loss for all the liberal forces, for he was the collective conscience keeper of progressives. Our final salute to a friend and a compatriot of liberalism, the Indian polity shall deeply miss him," Kharge concluded, reflecting the sentiments of many within the political spectrum who valued Yechury’s contributions.
Sitaram Yechury’s death has left a gaping void in Indian politics, particularly within the Leftist movement, where he was seen as a crucial figure in keeping the party's ideology relevant in contemporary times. His leadership was characterized by a thoughtful approach to policy, a firm stance on workers' and farmers' rights, and a commitment to social justice. As the General Secretary of the CPI(M), Yechury worked tirelessly to promote the party's agenda, both within India and on international platforms, advocating for socialism and the rights of the marginalized.
Leaders from various political ideologies acknowledged his rare ability to engage in meaningful dialogue across party lines, even with those whose views diverged significantly from his own. Yechury's legacy will be remembered not only for his staunch commitment to Leftist ideology but also for his ability to navigate India's complex political landscape with grace, wisdom, and respect for differing viewpoints. His death marks the end of a chapter in Indian political history, leaving behind a legacy of intellectual rigor, political courage, and the pursuit of a more just and equitable society.
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