New Delhi, Sept 12, 2024 – Sitaram Yechury, the General Secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and a former Rajya Sabha MP, passed away on Thursday at the age of 72. Yechury had been suffering from a respiratory tract infection that led to serious complications. The CPI(M) confirmed his passing through a statement on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), expressing their profound grief. “It is with profound grief that we announce the passing of our beloved Comrade Sitaram Yechury at 3:03 pm today, September 12, at AIIMS, New Delhi. He had been suffering from a respiratory tract infection, which led to complications,” the statement read.
Yechury, a well-known figure in Indian politics, had been admitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi on August 19, 2024, with pneumonia. Despite receiving medical treatment, his condition worsened due to the complications of his infection. According to Dr. Rima Dada, representing AIIMS’ media cell, Yechury passed away at 3:05 pm. The family, in line with Yechury’s dedication to knowledge and service, decided to donate his body to AIIMS for medical teaching and research purposes.
Health Risks for the Elderly
Yechury’s passing highlights the critical health risks faced by elderly individuals, particularly those suffering from respiratory infections. Dr. Ravi Shekher Jha, a senior consultant in pulmonology at Fortis Hospital, explained that respiratory infections in people over the age of 70 can lead to severe conditions like pneumonia. The respiratory tract infections are commonly caused by viruses and bacteria that spread through direct contact or via contaminated surfaces.
In India, environmental factors such as air pollution further exacerbate the spread and severity of these infections. Poor air quality, combined with the natural decline in immune function among older adults, makes them particularly vulnerable. Dr. Jha emphasized that preventive measures and timely treatment are essential to avoid such complications, especially for those in the 70-plus age group.
A Life of Service
Sitaram Yechury was known for his dedication to socialist values and his lifelong work for the Communist Party of India (Marxist). His passing marks the end of a significant era in Indian left-wing politics. Through his leadership and efforts in Parliament, Yechury advocated for the working class, social justice, and equality. The CPI(M) and supporters from across the political spectrum have expressed deep sorrow at the loss of one of India’s most prominent Marxist leaders.
As tributes pour in from across the country, the legacy of Yechury’s political career, marked by his commitment to his party’s principles and his advocacy for the marginalized, will continue to inspire future generations. His passing, coupled with the ongoing health concerns for the elderly in India, underscores the importance of addressing public health challenges in the country, particularly in the context of environmental and age-related vulnerabilities.
The gesture of donating his body to science adds another layer of reverence to Yechury’s legacy, leaving behind not only political achievements but also a contribution to the future of medical education and research.
