Sitaram Yechury (1952 – 2024): A Voice for the Voiceless, Now Silenced
Today, India mourns the loss of one of its most resolute and fearless political leaders, Sitaram Yechury. A stalwart of the Left, a defender of democracy, and a tireless champion of social justice, Yechury’s passing leaves a void that will be felt across the political spectrum and beyond. From his early days as a student leader at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), where he served as the president of the students’ union, Yechury was known for his unwavering commitment to democratic principles and his fearless advocacy for the marginalised. In those formative years, he first made his mark on the national stage, leading protests and standing up against the authoritarian measures imposed by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi during the Emergency. As a young leader, Yechury became a symbol of resistance, a voice of reason in tumultuous times, and a powerful advocate for the rights of students and citizens alike. His revolt against Indira Gandhi's regime showcased his courage and deep-...