Sitaram Yechury's son Ashish Yechury dies of COVID, political leaders slip into shock

Sitaram Yechury took to Twitter to announce the news. "It is with great sadness that I have to inform you that I lost my elder son Ashish Yechury to Covid-19 this morning. I want to thank all those who gave us hope and who treated him - doctors, nurses, frontline health workers, sanitation workers, and innumerable others who stood by us," he said.

According to those close to the family, 35-year-old Ashish Yechury had tested positive for Covid-19 two weeks ago and was admitted to Gurugram's Medanta Hospital. He succumbed to the disease at 5.30 am on Thursday. He is survived by his wife Swati.

Ashish, who studied at the Asian College of Journalism, Chennai, worked in several publications, including The Times of India in Delhi, News 18 and was currently working as an Assistant Editor at Newslaundry.

"The Polit Bureau conveys it deepest condolences to Sitaram and Indrani, his wife Swati, his sister Akhila and all other members of the bereaved family," CPI(M) said in a statement.

Condolences for the family also poured in as news of his death broke out.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has consoled CPM leader Sitaram Yechury for the bereavement of losing his elder son Ashish to Covid. The Chief Minister conveyed his deep condolences to the Yechury family

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor condoled the death: "Devastated by the news. There is no greater loss for a parent to endure. May you find the strength to bear the inexpressible grief of your loss. My heart goes out to you at this painful time."

DMK chief MK Stalin wrote: "Deeply saddened and pained to hear about the loss of Ashish Yechury. I offer my heartfelt condolences to Comrade Sitaram Yechury, his family and friends at this difficult time."