PM Modi pays tribute to Communist Party of China (CPM) leader Sitaram Yechury, says he was 'a leader of the Left'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of CPI-M general secretary Sitaram Yechury, calling it a great loss to Indian politics. In a statement, the Prime Minister extended his condolences to Yechury's family and supporters. Sitaram Yechury passed away at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi on September 12. He was 72. Yechury was in critical condition, receiving ventilator support due to complications from an acute respiratory infection.

I am saddened by the demise of Shri Sitaram Yechury Ji. He was a leader of the Left and was known for his ability to connect with all political spectrums. He also distinguished himself as an effective parliamentarian. My thoughts are with his family and admirers at this sad hour. Om Shanti, PM Modi said in a message on X.

Amit Shah condoles Sitaram Yechury's demise

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has expressed condolences over the demise of Sitaram Yechury, general secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and former Rajya Sabha MP. Shah described Yechury's demise as a great loss to the political sphere and expressed his deepest condolences to Yechury's family and friends. He offered prayers for strength and resilience during this difficult time.

Rajnath Singh expresses condolences

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of Sitaram Yechury, General Secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and former Rajya Sabha MP. Singh eulogised Yechury as a distinguished parliamentarian known for his knowledge and eloquence. Looking back on their personal interactions, Singh offered his condolences to Yechury's family and supporters. I will always remember my interactions with him. My condolences to his bereaved family and supporters. Om Shanti, Singh said.

Nitin Gadkari reacts

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari expressed deep sorrow over the demise of Sitaram Yechury, acknowledging his significant contributions to public life. Gadkari conveyed his heartfelt condolences to Yechury’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. He concluded his message with “Om Shanti”, reflecting on Yechury’s enduring legacy.

Body donated for research

As per Yechurys' wishes, his family donated his body to AIIMS for teaching and research. The CPI(M) expressed gratitude to the medical staff and announced that his body will be placed on public display at the party headquarters on September 16 from 11 am to 3 pm before being returned to AIIMS.

Political heritage

Yechury, who had been battling health issues since his admission to AIIMS on August 19, was a prominent figure in Indian politics. After starting his political journey with the Students' Federation of India (SFI) at Jawaharlal Nehru University, he became a member of the CPI(M) Politburo and served as the party's general secretary from 2015. He was also a Rajya Sabha MP from 2005 to 2017.

Family and tributes

Yechury is survived by his wife Seema Chishti, a journalist, and three children, including a daughter who teaches at the University of Edinburgh and the University of St Andrews. His son Ashish Yechury died of COVID-19 in 2021. In a recent video message, Yechury paid tribute to former West Bengal chief minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee, expressing regret at not being able to attend the memorial service in person.

Political impact

Yechury played a significant role in the formation of the opposition INDIA bloc and was the mentor of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. His death marks the end of an important era in the leadership of the CPI(M).

Also read |Sitaram Yechury, CPI-M general secretary and Left Front leader, dies at 72 after long illness