A STATE-level condolence meeting was held at Jayadev Bhawan in Bhubaneswar on September 22 to honour the late Sitaram Yechury, general secretary of the Communist Party of India (Marxist). Leaders from various political parties and progressive intellectuals gathered to pay tribute to this renowned Marxist thinker, eminent parliamentarian, and visionary leader of contemporary India.

CPI(M) state secretary Ali Kishore Patnaik presided over the meeting and introduced a condolence resolution in memory of Yechury followed by a minute of silence to honour his legacy.

Senior CPI(M) leader Janardan Pati highlighted Yechury's remarkable 50-year political journey, beginning with his involvement in the Students' Federation of India and culminating in his role as the Party's general secretary. Pati underlined Yechury's intellectual depth and his significant contributions to shaping the Party's ideology, particularly in the wake of the collapse of socialism in the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe.

He noted Yechury's pivotal role in drafting and presenting the CPI(M)'s ideological document in 1992, which reaffirmed the Party's commitment to Marxism-Leninism and his pivotal role in the Party's ideological evolution, particularly after the collapse of the Soviet Union has been crucial. He emphasized Yechury's leadership in organising the 1993 international seminar on Marxism that highlighted his influential role in global communist circles. Yechury played a crucial role in adapting Marxist principles to the Indian context, drawing on the ideas of thinkers like Bhagat Singh, Ambedkar, and Lohia. This synthesis of thought helped the CPI(M) remain relevant in a rapidly changing political landscape and fostered efforts to build a broad coalition of Left, democratic, and secular forces against communal fascism. He was also a key architect of the "India Bloc" platform ahead of the 2024 general elections.

Ali Kishore Patnaik, president of the condolence meeting, described Sitaram Yechury as a multi-faceted luminary in Indian politics, celebrated for his intellect, struggle, and sacrifice. He praised Yechury's deep understanding of various subjects, including politics, sociology, art, cinema, and culture.

Through his condolence message BJD president and former Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik praised Sitaram Yechury as an astute politician dedicated to Marxist principles and a champion for freedom, equality, justice, and the welfare of the downtrodden.

Various speakers, including CPI state secretary Ashish Kanungo and former union minister Srikanta Jena, highlighted Yechury's key contributions, particularly his efforts to strengthen Left unity and his role in formulating the common minimum programme for the UPA-I government. They emphasized his impact on Indian politics, including his ability to unite diverse political forces against the BJP, his defense of the constitution and democracy, his advocacy for economic equality and social justice and his role as a prominent advocate for the Left movement in national politics.

Rita Biswal, a long-time friend, remembered Sitaram as a true humanist, patriot, and dedicated politician who always prioritised the country's welfare. Other attendees, including Professor Bijay Kumar Bohidar, eminent poet Dr Ashwini Kumar Mishra, and senior journalist Rabi Das, also shared their reflections during the meeting.

The meeting was attended by leaders from 11 political parties, along with intellectuals, journalists, and admirers. A photo exhibition highlighting Yechury's political journey was also featured at the venue. Sitaram Yechury's influence reached well beyond the communist movement in India; his ability to bridge ideological divides and foster cooperation among diverse political entities set him apart in the political landscape. He was renowned for his articulate speeches in parliament and his talent for presenting complex Marxist concepts in an accessible manner.

Congress leader Ram Chandra Khuntia highlighted Yechury's broad acceptance across the political spectrum, praising his knowledge, qualities, and wisdom. Former minister Panchanan Kanungo emphasized Yechury's pivotal role in forming the India bloc, commending his unique ability to unite Left and regional parties on a common platform against the BJP.

Many speakers reflected on Yechury's vision for India, advocating for an egalitarian, just, democratic, secular, and modern nation. His critique of economic policies that exacerbated inequality and his strong opposition to communal forces were central to his political ideology. BJD leader Debi Prasad Mishra expressed that he is a strong supporter of Yechury who passionately defended progressive ideas for India. This sentiment was echoed by others, who emphasized Yechury's pragmatic approach to politics while remaining true to his ideological roots.

Yechury's skill in coalition-building was repeatedly highlighted, with his efforts to create a united front against the BJP seen as crucial in the current political landscape.

Several speakers, including CPI-ML (Liberation) state secretary Judhishthira Mahapatra, Forward Bloc state general secretary Jyoti Ranjan Mahapatra, and SUCI (Communist) leader Swayam Prabha Nayak, urged for unity among Left and democratic forces to continue Yechury's legacy. They emphasized that strengthening movements against injustice and oppression would be the best tribute to him.

The condolence meeting in Bhubaneswar served as both a tribute to Sitaram Yechury and a reflection on the current state of Indian politics and the role of the Left. Speakers unanimously expressed that Yechury's untimely passing was a significant loss to secular and democratic forces. As the meeting concluded, all felt a renewed commitment to advance Yechury's vision of a more equitable India.

The photo exhibition at Jayadev Bhawan, showcasing moments from Yechury's political life, poignantly reminded everyone of his journey and impact on Indian politics. This event was more than a condolence meeting; it celebrated Yechury's life, ideas, and contributions, underscoring the respect he commanded across the political spectrum and the void his absence has created in national discourse. As India faces numerous challenges, the lessons and legacy of leaders like Sitaram Yechury continue to inspire those committed to social justice and democratic values.