
New Delhi [India], May 2 (ANI): Senior Congress leaders, including Party President Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Union Minister and veteran party leader Dr. Girija Vyas, calling her demise an “irreparable loss” to the nation and the Congress party.
In a heartfelt post on X, Mallikarjun Kharge wrote, “The news of the demise of former Union Minister, former State President of Rajasthan Congress, and senior Congress leader Dr. Girija Vyas ji is extremely saddening. She served the nation and the Congress Party in numerous significant roles—as Union Minister, Member of Parliament, Member of the Legislative Assembly, Chairperson of the National Commission for Women, Chairperson of the AICC Ideology Department, and Editor of Congress Sandesh.”
Describing her as an intellectual politician, powerful orator, and capable administrator, Kharge emphasized that her passing marks a profound loss to the Congress family.
“She was a true Gandhian who led by example in championing women’s empowerment. From becoming an MLA at the age of just 25, she devoted over four decades to public service and the Congress Party through various constitutional and organizational roles. In this hour of grief, I extend my deepest condolences to her family and admirers and pray for the peace of her soul,” Kharge added.
Rahul Gandhi also took to social media to honor the late leader’s contributions to Indian society, particularly in the realms of education, social justice, and gender equality.
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of former Union Minister and our senior leader Dr. Girija Vyas ji. Her contributions in the fields of education, social justice, and particularly women’s empowerment were deeply significant. Her demise is an irreparable loss for all of us. My heartfelt condolences go out to her family, supporters, and well-wishers during this difficult time,” Gandhi stated.
Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot also conveyed his grief over Vyas’s death. In a post on X, he noted her substantial contributions to public life.
“The demise of former Union Minister and former Congress State President Dr. Girija Vyas is an irreparable loss for all of us. She made great contributions in education, politics, and social service. Her untimely passing in such a tragic accident is a tremendous shock. I pray that her soul finds peace at the feet of the Almighty,” said Gehlot.
According to reports, Vyas recently sustained severe burns during a fire accident while performing aarti at her residence in Udaipur, which ultimately led to her passing.
Dr. Girija Vyas was a seasoned Congress leader who held several significant positions at both the state and national levels. She was the president of the Rajasthan Congress and also served as the Chairperson of the National Commission for Women.
Her political journey includes winning a seat in the Lok Sabha from Udaipur in 1991 and serving as a Union Minister in the Narasimha Rao-led government. She was later elected as a Member of Parliament from Rajasthan’s Chittorgarh constituency during the 15th Lok Sabha.
Her legacy as a devoted public servant, advocate for women’s rights, and committed Congress leader will be remembered and honored by the party and the people she served.