New Delhi, September 12, 2024 – Sitaram Yechury, a distinguished leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and a stalwart in Indian politics, passed away today at the age of 72. Yechury’s death was confirmed by CPM around 3:03 PM, following a prolonged battle with respiratory complications. He had been under treatment at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi since August 19, battling a severe chest infection that led to critical health issues.
In an official statement released on X, the CPM expressed deep sorrow over Yechury’s passing: “It is with profound grief that we announce the passing away of our beloved Comrade Sitaram Yechury. His struggle with a respiratory tract infection led to complications that ultimately claimed his life.” The party also extended its gratitude to the medical staff at AIIMS for their dedicated care.
AIIMS confirmed that Yechury’s family has chosen to donate his body to the hospital for educational and research purposes, reflecting his lifelong commitment to public service and knowledge.
Tributes Pour in for Sitaram Yechury, Eminent CPM Leader and Parliamentarian
Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his condolences on X, describing Yechury as a prominent figure in Left politics known for his broad political engagement and effective parliamentary contributions. “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. My thoughts are with his family and admirers in this sad hour. Om Shanti,” Modi stated.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi reminisced about his interactions with Yechury, highlighting his deep understanding of India and his role as a friend. “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 shared on X.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also paid tribute, stating, “Sad to know that Sri Sitaram Yechury has passed away. I knew the veteran parliamentarian that he was and his demise will be a loss for national politics. I express my condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.”
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari expressed his sadness, acknowledging Yechury’s significant contributions to public life. “His contributions to public life will always be remembered. Heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time. Om Shanti,” Gadkari wrote on X.
Jairam Ramesh, a senior Congress leader, remembered Yechury as a pragmatic Marxist and a pillar of the CPI(M). “Yechury was an unrepentant Marxist with a pragmatic streak, a pillar of the CPI(M), and a superb Parliamentarian,” Ramesh noted.
Yechury’s political journey began nearly 50 years ago when he joined the CPM as a student leader. He served as the party’s general secretary for three consecutive terms from 2005 to 2015 and was re-elected in 2018. He also represented the Rajya Sabha from 2005 to 2017. Yechury was instrumental in coalition-building efforts for both the United Front government in 1996 and the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government in 2004.
He was a staunch advocate of the coalition-building strategy pioneered by his predecessor Harkishan Singh Surjeet. Yechury’s educational background included a BA (Hons.) in Economics from St. Stephen’s College and an MA in Economics from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). His political activism also saw him detained during the Emergency declared by Indira Gandhi in 1975.
Yechury’s legacy will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to his ideological beliefs and his influential role in shaping Indian political discourse.
