Yechury was bridge between Cong, INDIA bloc parties: Rahul Gandhi
In a heartfelt tribute to CPM leader Sitaram Yechury, who passed away earlier this month, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Saturday highlighted Yechury’s role as a bridge between the Congress party and other parties in the INDIA bloc.
Gandhi recalled Yechury’s reluctance to seek medical treatment during their last encounter. “He came to meet my mother (Sonia Gandhi), and I noticed him coughing. I asked my office to make sure he visited the hospital, and that was the last time I saw my friend,” he shared.
Reflecting on Yechury’s political journey, Gandhi said, “For me, Yechury was a friend who navigated the political system. Politics, from the outside, seems simple, but inside, it’s an unforgiving, harsh, and uncomfortable space that often brings out the worst in people. It’s rare to see politics bring out the best in someone. I observed Yechury closely from the start of my political career and found him to be someone who was flexible and a good listener.”
Gandhi praised Yechury’s unique character, noting that he lacked the anger, aggression, and arrogance often associated with many politicians. “He was someone you could trust, and you knew he wasn’t compromised, especially in today’s environment where it’s easy to give in to pressure,” he said.
Gandhi also remembered Yechury’s approach to the BJP and RSS, saying, “Whenever he spoke about them, it wasn’t about what they were doing at the moment, but about the larger danger they posed to the country. He was concerned about how they were undermining our institutions, our education system, and the overall structure of India.”
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge recalled Yechury’s ability to unite people and parties, constantly working to bridge differences through dialogue. National Conference President Farooq Abdullah praised Yechury’s efforts to eradicate poverty, end the politics of hate, and promote fraternity. “He met even his enemies with love. He not only embodied the values of India but worked tirelessly to save them,” Abdullah said.
Leaders from the Rashtriya Janata Dal, Samajwadi Party, DMK, NCP (Sharad Pawar faction), Aam Aadmi Party, and Jharkhand Mukti Morcha also offered their condolences, recognising Yechury’s contributions to Indian politics.
