The passing of CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury at the age of 72 marks the end of an era in Indian politics. Yechury, known for his deep intellect, firm ideological convictions, and a lifelong commitment to Marxist principles, left a lasting legacy that transcended political boundaries. From Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Mamata Banerjee, Jairam Ramesh to Chandrababu Naidu, tributes poured in from leaders across the political spectrum following Yechury's demise at AIIMS after battling a prolonged illness.
Rahul Gandhi
Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi condoled the demise of CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury and said he was a protector of the idea of India with a deep understanding of the country. Gandhi said, "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."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "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."
President Droupadi Murmu
President Droupadi Murmu said, "Saddened to learn about the demise of CPI (M) general secretary Shri Sitaram Yechury. First as a student leader and then in national politics and as a parliamentarian, he had a distinct and influential voice. Though a committed ideologue, he won friends cutting across the party lines."
Mamata Banerjee
West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee said, "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 the national politics. I express my condolences to his family, friends and colleagues."
Himanta Biswa Sarma
Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said, "Pained by the passing away of Sitaram Yechury ji. An erudite and articulate leader, he made a rich contribution towards public service and social justice. In his long and distinguished political career, which began during the anti emergency andolan, he served the people and his party with great diligence."
Pinarayi Vijayan
Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said, "Farewell, Comrade Sitaram Yechury. His passing leaves an irreplaceable void in the Communist movement and people’s struggles. I cherish the moments we shared and his unmatched ideological clarity, strategic brilliance, and dedication to the revolutionary cause. Amid rising inequality and threats to secular and constitutional ideals, his legacy will inspire us to keep fighting for a just India."
Jairam Ramesh
Jairam Ramesh said Sitaram Yechury was an 'unrepentant Marxist with a pragmatic streak, a pillar of the CPI(M), and a superb Parliamentarian'. Ramesh said, "Our association stretched over three decades, and we collaborated closely at different occasions. Salaam Tovarish. You have left us much too early but you enriched public life immeasurably and will not be forgotten."
N Chandrababu Naidu
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu said, "Sitaram Yechury was a stalwart who rose from the ranks to become one of the most respected voices in Indian politics. He was known for his intellectual take on issues, and connection with the people at the grassroots level."
Priyanka Gandhi
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi said, "The passing away of Shri Sitaram Yechury is a profound loss for all of us. His years of service and devotion to our country is 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."
Udhayanidhi Stalin
Tamil Nadu minister and DMK leader Udhayanidhi Stalin said, "His (Yechury's) lifelong commitment to empowering the marginalised and fighting fascist forces created a profound impact in the society. He worked closely with the DMK and our leaders Dr. Kalaignar and our Honourable Chief Minister M K Stalin to uphold the constitutional values and democracy."
Mallikarjun Kharge
Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge said, "He (Yechury) was a humble leader who chartered the unique territory of balancing personal equations with unflinching political ideologies. A excellent Parliamentarian and an outstanding intellectual, he served the people of India with pragmatism blended with idealism. It is a great loss for all the liberal forces, for he was the collective conscience keeper of progressives. Our final salute to a friend and a compatriot of liberalism, the Indian polity shall deeply miss him."
Kiren Rijiju
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju said, "I am deeply saddened by the tragic demise of veteran CPM leader, Sitaram Yechury ji. We had many years of working relations in the Parliament. Extending my deepest condolences to his family, colleagues and admirers."
Raghav Chadha
Aam Aadmi Party leader Raghav Chadha said, "He (Yechury) was admired across party lines for his intellect, excellent articulation of his party's positions and a deep-rooted passion for people's causes. A firebrand speaker and yet gentle colleague, one with a piercing speech yet an amicable bond with everyone, he was a true comrade.
Ghulam Nabi Azad
Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) chief Ghulam Nabi Azad said, "Deeply saddened and shocked to hear about the passing of my dear friend Sitaram Yechury ji. We’ve lost a great statesman, a dedicated parliamentarian, and a remarkable human being. His demise is a tremendous loss for national politics."