Mamata Banerjee, Rahul Gandhi, and other leaders express deep condolences over the CPM leader’s death, acknowledging his impact on Indian politics.
In a somber turn of events, the death of CPM General Secretary Sitaram Yechury has been met with heartfelt tributes from political leaders across India. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee described his passing as a “loss to national politics.” Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Banerjee wrote, “I am saddened to learn of Shri Sitaram Yechury’s death. I knew him during my time as a Member of Parliament. His passing is a loss to national politics. My condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.”
Although Mamata had fiercely opposed Yechury’s CPM in Bengal, especially during the peak of her political career, recent years saw both leaders sharing a platform against the BJP as part of the INDIA alliance. Banerjee had even referred to him respectfully as “Yechuryji” during these meetings.
Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, also expressed his sorrow, stating, “Sitaram Yechuryji was my friend. He had a profound understanding of our country and was a guardian of Indian values.” Mourning the loss of his long-time ally, Gandhi added, “I will miss the deep conversations we had. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and followers.”
Abhishek Banerjee, the All India General Secretary of the Trinamool Congress, also shared his tribute on X, remarking, “Though we had ideological differences, I had the privilege of interacting with him in recent meetings. His simplicity, deep understanding of public policies, and parliamentary insights were truly remarkable.”
CPM Politburo member and Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan called Yechury an “undisputed leader of the left movement.” CPI General Secretary D. Raja added, “His absence will be felt in both left and democratic politics.” Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and TDP leader Chandrababu Naidu also praised Yechury, noting, “He had become one of the most respected voices in Indian politics.”
Yechury’s passing has left a significant void in the national political landscape, with tributes pouring in from leaders across ideological spectrums.