Political Leaders Pay Tribute to CPI(M) Veteran Sitaram Yechury

Following the passing of CPI(M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury, numerous political figures expressed their grief, praising his contributions to Indian politics and his unwavering commitment to democracy and social justice.

After CPI(M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury succumbed to a prolonged illness on Thursday, a wave of tributes from political leaders across the spectrum flowed in, mourning the loss of the seasoned communist leader. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar expressed his deep sorrow over Yechury's demise, recalling their shared academic journey and enduring friendship. "Deeply grieved to learn about the passing away of my friend Sitaram Yechury. We studied together and maintained close ties for over five decades. Always valued our discussions and debates. Like so many others in the political and intellectual world, will really miss his presence," Jaishankar posted on X.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee described Yechury's death as a significant loss to national politics. "Sad to know that Sitaram Yechury has passed away. I knew the veteran parliamentarian that he was and his demise will be a loss for the national politics. I express my condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues," she wrote on X.

Aam Aadmi Party Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh characterized Yechury's passing as an irreplaceable loss for Indian politics. "A strong voice raised in favour of democracy and constitution, a leading leader Sitaram Yechury who mobilised everyone against communalism, has said goodbye to the world, but he will always remain alive in the voice of the poor, laborers, and the oppressed," Singh said on X, adding, "Red Salute to Comrade Sitaram Yechury ji with a bowed head."

The CPI(M) party also expressed its profound grief on X, stating, "It is with profound grief that we announce the passing away of CPIM General Secretary, our beloved Comrade Sitaram Yechury, at 3.03 pm today, at the AIIMS, New Delhi. He was suffering from a respiratory tract infection which developed complications." Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi tweeted her respect for Yechury's years of dedication. "The passing away of Sitaram Yechury is a profound loss for all of us. His years of service and devotion to our country are worthy of the greatest respect. Most of all, he was an inherently decent human being who brought a sense of balance and gentleness to the harsh world of politics. May his soul rest in peace," she wrote.

Communist Party of India (Marxist)'s party flag flew at half-mast at the Delhi office in Yechury's memory.

(With inputs from agencies.)