New Delhi, September 12, 2024: In a shocking development, Sitaram Yechury, the General Secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)], passed away today at the age of 72. He was undergoing treatment for an acute respiratory tract infection at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi.
Yechury’s demise has sent shockwaves throughout the political fraternity, with leaders from various parties expressing their condolences. His passing marks the end of an era in Indian politics, leaving a void in the communist movement.
Yechury was admitted to AIIMS on August 19 for treatment of pneumonia-like chest infection. Despite the best efforts of the medical team, his condition deteriorated, leading to his unfortunate demise.
Throughout his political career, Yechury was known for his unwavering commitment to the communist ideology and his unrelenting fight for social justice. He became the CPI(M) General Secretary in 2015 and was re-elected twice in 2018 and 2022.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, saying, “Sitaram Yechury’s passing is a loss for Indian politics. His contributions to the communist movement will always be remembered.”
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said, “Yechury’s dedication to social justice and equality was inspiring. His legacy will continue to guide us.”
CPI(M) leader Hannan Mollah described Yechury as “a true comrade and a champion of the working class.”
Yechury’s political journey began with the Student Federation of India (SFI), the student wing of CPI(M). He rose through the ranks to become a prominent figure in the party’s Polit Bureau.
His advocacy for coalition politics and his efforts to unite the Opposition against the ruling forces will be remembered as significant contributions to Indian politics.
The CPI(M) has announced that Yechury’s funeral will take place on September 14, 2024, at 11 am in New Delhi. Leaders from various parties are expected to attend the funeral to pay their last respects.