Veteran Congress leader and former Union Minister Dr. Girija Vyas passed away on May 1, 2025, at 79, a month after sustaining severe burn injuries during an ‘aarti’ ceremony at her Udaipur residence on March 31. Her dupatta caught fire from a burning lamp, causing critical injuries. Despite treatment at a private Udaipur hospital and later at Ahmedabad’s Zydus Hospital, her condition worsened, leading to her demise.

Born on July 8, 1946, in Nathdwara, Rajasthan, Dr. Girija Vyas was a prominent figure in Indian politics, making significant contributions to education, politics, and social service. Dr. Vyas holds a distinguished academic background, with a BA from Udaipur University (1965), an MA from Udaipur University (1967), and a PhD from Udaipur University (1971). She was a seasoned politician, poet, and writer with a long history of leadership roles.

She began her political career as the District President of Udaipur District Congress Committee (1977-1984) and later became a member of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly (1985-1990) at the age of 25, serving as Minister of State for Tourism (1986-1990). She has also held prominent positions such as President of Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee and Member of All-India Congress Committee since 1990.

Dr. Girija Vyas has had a distinguished parliamentary career, serving as a Lok Sabha member multiple times (1991, 1996, 1999, 2009) and holding portfolios like Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting (1991-1993) and Union Minister for HUPA (2013-2014). She has also been President of All-India Mahila Congress (1993) and National Commission for Women for two terms (2005 & 2008). Additionally, she has held key roles within the Congress Party, including Chief Whip in Lok Sabha, AICC Media In-charge, and Member of the Central Election Committee, Chairperson of Vichar Vibhag, and Editor of ‘Congress Sandesh’.

Congress leaders mourn Dr. Girija Vyas’ demise

In a condolence resolution passed in Congress Working Committee on May 2, 2025, it was said, ‘A fearless voice, a committed public servant and a lifelong fighter for the cause of Women rights. The CWC extends its deepest and heartfelt condolences to her family, friends and admirers.’

In a letter addressed to Dr. Girija Vyas’ brother Gopal Krishna Sharma, CPP Chairperson Smt. Sonia Gandhi wrote, “I am shocked to hear the news of the demise of your elder sister — senior Congress leader, former minister, prolific writer, renowned poet, and a gentle, soft-spoken personality – Dr. Girija Vyas. Her passing during treatment in Ahmedabad, following a horrific accident about a month ago, is deeply saddening.” Smt. Sonia Gandhi described Vyas’ demise as an “irreparable loss” not only to her family but also to the Indian National Congress and the literary world. “She made unforgettable contributions to politics, society, and education. Her unwavering faith in the principles and ideology of the Indian National Congress remained intact till her last breath. Whatever role she took on — be it in the organization or government — she fulfilled it with utmost dedication,” Smt. Sonia Gandhi wrote. “In this moment of grief, I extend my heartfelt condolences to her family, colleagues, well-wishers, and supporters,” she added.

Congress President Shri Mallikarjun Kharge said in a post on X- “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 sad.” “She served the country and the Congress Party in many important capacities as Union Minister, MP, MLA, Chairperson of the Women’s Commission, Chairperson of the AICC Ideology Department, and Editor of ‘Congress Sandesh’. An intellectual politician, an influential orator, and an able administrator, her demise is an irreparable loss to the Congress family,” he added. The Congress President Shri Mallikarjun Kharge said that as a true Gandhian, Dr. Girija Vyas set an inspiring example of women’s empowerment while performing her duties.

Former Congress President and Leader of Opposition Shri Rahul Gandhi remembered her contributions in the fields of education, social justice, and women’s empowerment. “I am deeply saddened to hear the news of the demise of former Union Minister and our senior leader Dr. Girija Vyas ji. Her contribution in the field of education, social justice, and especially women’s empowerment has been very important. Her demise is an irreparable loss for all of us. In this sad moment, I express my deepest condolences to her family, supporters, and well-wishers,” he said in a social media post. “The demise of former Union Minister and former Congress State President Dr. Girija Vyas is an irreparable loss for all of us. Dr. Girija Vyas has made a great contribution to the field of education, politics, and social service. Her untimely demise in such an accident is a big shock for all of us. I pray to God to grant her soul a place at his feet,”former Chief Minister of Rajasthan Shri Ashok Gehlot said. Congress leaders from national and state levels paid tribute to Dr. Girija Vyas after her passing, praising her contributions to politics, education, and social service.