Sitaram Yechury, a former Rajya Sabha MP and general secretary of the CPI(M), passed away on Thursday at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi. He had been admitted on August 19 after complaining about pneumonia-like symptoms. He was seventy-two.
Leaders of CPI(M) stated that Yechury was receiving treatment for an acute respiratory tract infection in the intensive care unit (ICU). His health was deemed severe, and for the past few days, he has been receiving care from a multidisciplinary team of doctors while being kept on respiratory support.
Sitaram Yechury’s Body Donated to AIIMS
His body has been given by his family to AIIMS, New Delhi, for use in research and education. On Saturday, his body will be turned over to the hospital.
On Friday, Yechury's remains will be transported from AIIMS to his Delhi home, where it would be held over night. On Saturday morning, his remains would be brought to the CPI(M) central committee office for public viewing. Later that evening, AIIMS will receive his body.
Political Reactions on Sitaram Yechury’s Death
Numerous political figures have expressed their condolences, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, opposition leader Rahul Gandhi and other prominent leaders.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, describing Yechury as a "prominent figure of the Left" and praised his "ability to connect with people from different political backgrounds." Modi also acknowledged Yechury’s impactful role as a Parliamentarian.
President Droupadi Murmu also shared her sorrow over Yechury's passing, saying, "He had a strong and influential voice, first as a student leader and later in national politics and Parliament. Despite being a committed ideologue, he made friends across party lines." She extended her heartfelt condolences to his family and colleagues.
Sonia Gandhi, chairperson of the Congress Parliamentary Party, described Yechury as a "strong advocate of secularism" and highlighted his key role in UPA-1. She also praised his recent contributions to the formation of the INDIA group ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. "He will be greatly missed," she added.
Yechury began his political career with the left-wing Student Federation of India, where he held key leadership positions. He was especially important during the height of coalition politics, when keeping India's federal governments stable required uniting different ideas and priorities.
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