Veteran Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader and prominent figure in Indian politics, Sitaram Yechury, passed away on Thursday at the age of 72 following a prolonged illness. His body has been donated to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, for teaching and research purposes, reflecting his lifelong commitment to public service and education.
Born on August 12, 1952, in Chennai, Yechury was known for his strategic approach to coalition politics and his unwavering commitment to Marxism. His political journey began in 1974 when he joined the Students’ Federation of India (SFI). He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming the President of the Jawaharlal Nehru University Students’ Union three times and later serving as the All-India President of SFI. In 1984, he was elected to the Central Committee of the CPI(M) and became a permanent invitee. By 1992, he was a member of the Politburo, a position he held for over three decades.
Yechury served as a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha from West Bengal from 2005 to 2017. He succeeded Prakash Karat as the General Secretary of CPI(M) in 2015 and was re-elected to the position in 2018 and 2022, solidifying his leadership in the party.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences over Yechury’s death, stating, “He was a leading light of the Left and was known for his ability to connect across the political spectrum. He also made a mark as an effective Parliamentarian. My thoughts are with his family and admirers in this sad hour.”
Congress MP Rahul Gandhi also paid tribute to Yechury, describing him as a “protector of the Idea of India with a deep understanding of our country.” Gandhi fondly recalled their long discussions, highlighting Yechury’s deep insights and commitment to the nation’s ideals.
West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee expressed her grief, calling Yechury’s death “a loss for national politics.”
Sitaram Yechury’s body was donated to AIIMS, demonstrating his belief in contributing to society even in death. His donation will aid medical research and education, furthering the values he held dear throughout his life.
