Khammam: Former MP Nama Nageswara Rao expressed heartfelt condolences on the passing of CPI(M) national general secretary, Sitaram Yechury. He extended his sympathies to Yechury’s family, recalling the late leader’s active role in shaping the Third Front and his unwavering dedication to public service.
Rao described Yechury as a leader who embodied a unique blend of values and ideologies. He praised Yechury’s courage during the state of emergency in India, when he was arrested for standing up for democratic principles. Over the years, Yechury strengthened his position as a true people’s leader, always advocating for the marginalized and oppressed.
Nageswara Rao reflected on the personal loss, remembering Yechury not just as a colleague but also as a close friend. He expressed sorrow at the void left by Yechury’s demise, paying tribute to his lifelong commitment to fighting for justice and equality.
Khammam: In a heartfelt tribute to the late CPI(M) national general secretary Sitaram Yechury, former MP Nama Nageswara Rao expressed his deep sorrow and condolences on the passing of one of India’s most prominent communist leaders. Extending his sympathies to Yechury’s family, Rao reflected on the extraordinary legacy Yechury leaves behind, both as a political leader and as a close personal friend.
Yechury, who passed away leaving a significant void in Indian politics, was more than just a political figure; he was a symbol of values, ideologies, and integrity that defined the fabric of India’s Left movement. Rao took this moment to not only express his grief but also to celebrate the life and contributions of a leader who shaped much of the political discourse in India, particularly through his active involvement in the Third Front and his unflinching dedication to the welfare of the common people.
A Legacy of Ideological Integrity
In his remembrance, Nama Nageswara Rao emphasized Yechury’s steadfast commitment to his ideological roots. Throughout his life, Yechury stood for the values of socialism, equality, and justice, carrying forward the ideals of the communist movement with sincerity and conviction. Rao remarked that Yechury’s life was a testament to the power of conviction, remarking that Yechury represented a unique combination of values and ideologies, an enduring legacy that resonated far beyond his party.
Rao highlighted Yechury’s pivotal role in the Third Front, a political alliance aimed at providing an alternative to the traditional powerhouses of Indian politics. Yechury’s work in this alliance was significant, as he brought together like-minded leaders from diverse political backgrounds to fight for a common cause—the people’s cause. Rao fondly recalled the passion with which Yechury took on this challenge, striving to build a coalition that put people over power.
Courage Under Fire: The Emergency Era
Rao recalled one of the most defining moments in Yechury’s political career—the dark days of the Emergency. In 1975, when Prime Minister Indira Gandhi declared a state of Emergency, suspending civil liberties and jailing political opponents, Yechury was one of the brave leaders who stood up against this oppression. For his defiance, Yechury was arrested, spending time in jail for his unwavering commitment to democracy and free speech.
For Rao, this period in Yechury’s life exemplified the communist leader’s courage and resolve. Despite the immense personal risk, Yechury stood firm in his beliefs, refusing to be silenced. The experience of being imprisoned only seemed to fortify Yechury’s determination to fight for the people, and he emerged from the Emergency as a stronger and more resolute leader.
Yechury’s resistance during the Emergency marked a turning point in his political career, cementing his position as a leader of the masses and an advocate for democratic rights. Over the following decades, Yechury continued to be a voice for the voiceless, championing the rights of workers, farmers, and marginalized communities. His leadership within the CPI(M) reflected this deep connection to the struggles of everyday Indians.
A People’s Leader
Nageswara Rao praised Yechury’s unshakable bond with the common people, describing him as a leader who never lost sight of his mission to uplift those in need. Unlike many politicians who became distant from their grassroots base over time, Yechury remained grounded, always attuned to the concerns of the people he represented. Rao remarked that Yechury’s deep empathy and understanding of the problems faced by ordinary citizens set him apart from other political leaders.
He was a tireless advocate for the working class, constantly fighting for labor rights, better wages, and improved working conditions. His involvement in worker movements, peasant struggles, and his unrelenting stand against corporate exploitation earned him widespread respect across political lines. Yechury believed in the power of collective action and consistently mobilized people to fight for their rights, inspiring countless others to join the struggle for social justice.
Rao remembered how Yechury’s speeches in Parliament often resonated with the concerns of the ordinary citizen. Whether it was addressing economic inequality, the plight of farmers, or issues of social justice, Yechury’s words carried weight because they came from a place of authenticity and genuine concern for the nation’s welfare.
Personal Reflection: A Loss of a Friend
Beyond their political affiliation, Nama Nageswara Rao spoke about his personal relationship with Yechury, recalling him as a dear friend and mentor. Rao expressed that Yechury’s passing felt like a personal loss, not just for the CPI(M) or the Left movement, but for him on an individual level. He shared how Yechury had always been a source of wisdom, guidance, and companionship throughout their years in politics together.
Rao reflected on the moments they shared, both in the public eye and behind the scenes, working together to address some of India’s most pressing political challenges. Yechury’s ability to forge deep friendships across party lines was one of his most admirable qualities, Rao said. He had an openness that allowed him to connect with people from all walks of life, and that connection was not bound by party ideologies or political rivalries.
Nageswara Rao said Yechury was someone who always kept the bigger picture in mind—the welfare of the nation and its people. Even when their opinions differed, Yechury’s willingness to engage in healthy debate and discourse fostered a spirit of mutual respect and camaraderie. Rao emphasized that Yechury’s loss is irreplaceable, and his absence will be felt deeply in Indian politics, especially among those who had the privilege of working with him closely.
A Legacy That Lives On
In concluding his tribute, Nageswara Rao said that Sitaram Yechury’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of leaders who wish to dedicate their lives to the service of the people. His contributions to the communist movement, his defense of democratic values during the Emergency, and his lifelong commitment to social justice will forever be remembered as hallmarks of a life well-lived.
Rao expressed hope that Yechury’s principles would continue to guide the CPI(M) and all those who fight for the rights of the oppressed. He highlighted the need for today’s political leaders to learn from Yechury’s example, to stand up for what is right even in the face of adversity, and to remain connected with the people they serve.
As Nageswara Rao said his final goodbye to a cherished friend and colleague, he reminded everyone of the indelible mark Sitaram Yechury has left on Indian politics—a mark that will be difficult to match, but one that will forever serve as a beacon for those who believe in justice, equality, and the power of the people.
