Sitaram Yechury, the general secretary of CPI(M), on Thursday said that his elder son, Ashish died in the morning due to the COVID-19 infection. 

Taking to Twitter, Sitaram Yechury wrote, “It is with great sadness that I have to inform 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.”

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According to a PTI report, Ashish was recovering well at the Medanta Hospital in Gurgaon, people close to the family said. Ashish, who would have turned 35 on June 9, died at 5.30 am on Thursday. He was battling with the COVID-19 disease for two weeks. 

A former student of the Asian College of Journalism, Chennai, Ashish had worked with several publications, including The Times of India in Delhi. 

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The CPI(M) Politburo issued a statement announcing the death and offering its condolences to the family.

“We are deeply sorry to announce the passing away this morning (22 April) of Ashish Yechury, son of Sitaram Yechury and Indrani Mazumdar. He died of Covid related complications. He was 35 years old. 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,” the statement said.

“Deeply saddened and pained to hear about the loss of Ashish Yechury. I offer my heartfelt condolences to Comrade @SitaramYechury, his family and friends at this difficult time,” tweeted DMK leader MK Stalin.

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor said he was 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.” TMC MP Derek O’Brien wrote.