Thu Sep 12 17:58:03 UTC 2024: ## Veteran Communist Leader Sitaram Yechury Passes Away at 72
**New Delhi, September 12, 2024:** Tributes poured in from across the political spectrum for CPI(M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury, who passed away at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi on Thursday. He was 72. Yechury had been battling a lung infection and was admitted to the hospital on August 19th.
Known for his intellectual prowess and ability to connect across ideological divides, Yechury was a towering figure in Indian politics. Leaders from all parties expressed their condolences and acknowledged his significant contributions to public life.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Yechury as a “leading light of the Left” who was known for his ability to connect across the political spectrum. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi called him a “protector of the idea of India,” highlighting his deep understanding of the country.
Yechury was a lifelong communist and a champion of secularism and India’s diversity. He served as a Rajya Sabha MP for several terms and was instrumental in the formation of the INDIA alliance ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
Despite their ideological differences, leaders from the BJP, including Union Ministers Piyush Goyal and Kiren Rijiju, also expressed their condolences, acknowledging Yechury’s dedication to public service.
His passing is a huge loss for the Left movement and Indian politics as a whole. Yechury was widely respected for his political integrity and commitment to his ideals. His legacy as a brilliant strategist, eloquent orator, and committed leader will continue to inspire generations to come.
The CPI(M) Polit Bureau expressed deep sorrow and condolences to Yechury’s family and party members, urging them to continue the struggle for an exploitation-free society in his memory.
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