Skip to main content
A champion of the masses: Sitaram Yechury 1952-2024
The leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) rose from campus politics to become a key strategist in building coalitions, shaping India’s politics through skilled negotiation and an unwavering commitment to Marxism

THE death of Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader Sitaram Yechury on September 12 dealt a heavy blow to the people of India and the world communist movement.

A hugely respected figure across most of India’s heavily populated political spectrum, he led millions of people in the struggle against communalism, exploitation, discrimination and poverty. He defended his country’s unity, sovereignty and ethnic and religious diversity.

And he did so with erudition, serenity, a dash of passion and a profound commitment to the principles of Marxism-Leninism.

Support the Morning Star
You have reached the free limit.
Subscribe to continue reading.
More from this author
Features / 27 February 2025
27 February 2025
From McCarthy’s prison cells to London’s carnival, Jones fought for peace and unity while exposing the lies of US imperialism, says ROBERT GRIFFITHS, in a graveside oration at Highgate Cemetery given last Sunday
Features / 4 November 2024
4 November 2024
In the second of two articles on Labour’s weak Budget, ROBERT GRIFFITHS argues that Britain’s massive private wealth and offshore tax havens show clear potential for radical redistribution through progressive taxation
Features / 3 November 2024
3 November 2024
In the first of two articles, ROBERT GRIFFITHS argues that despite a parliamentary majority, Labour’s timid Budget fails to seize a historic opportunity and lacks the ambition needed to address Britain’s deep social and economic crises
Features / 30 September 2024
30 September 2024
As the People's Republic turns 75, ROBERT GRIFFITHS details how British communists championed Chinese sovereignty against imperialism, weathering the political storms of the Sino-Soviet split and collapse of the USSR to rebuild relations for the modern era