Kerala Leaders Mourn Demise of CPI(M) Stalwart Sitaram Yechury

Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan mourn the death of CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury. Yechury passed away at AIIMS Delhi after prolonged illness. Leaders from across the political spectrum described him as a committed democrat and irreplaceable leader in Indian politics.

Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday condoled the demise of CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury.

Khan said that Yechury was committed towards democracy and people's welfare, and the same was reflected in his approach to social issues.

''Heartfelt condolences on the sad demise of Sri #sitaramyechuri, former MP and senior leader. His commitment towards democracy and people's welfare reflected in his approach to social issues. May his soul attain Mukti,'' Khan said in a post on social media platform 'X'.

Vijayan described the late CPI(M) veteran as an unparalleled leader of the Communist movement, stating his death was an irreplaceable loss for the nation, especially during these challenging times.

Condolences also came from various Left and Congress leaders, including Assembly Speaker A N Shamseer, Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan, KPCC chief K Sudhakaran, and CPI state secretary Binoy Viswam. They all characterized his death as a significant loss to Indian politics and the Communist movement.

Yechury died at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi on Thursday following a prolonged illness. He was 72.

Vijayan said that Yechury guided the party as its general secretary for nine years through tough political times, emphasizing that his clear political stands were not only a guide for the party but also for Left front and Indian politics.

His death is an irreplaceable loss to the country, especially when facing a serious crisis, the CM added in a statement from his office.

Leaders also recalled Yechury's days as a student leader who opposed former PM Indira Gandhi during the Emergency. Shamseer noted his significant role in the creation and leadership of the INDIA bloc.

Leaders like Viswam and Excise Minister M B Rajesh paid tribute, calling Yechury a vibrant leader. Congress leaders remembered him as a pragmatic leader prioritizing the interests of the poor, downtrodden, and minorities.

Yechury was widely recognized as the face of moderation and secular values in Indian politics. He had been critically ill and on respiratory support before passing away at 3.05 pm, sources said.

(With inputs from agencies.)