Veteran Journalist Payal Mehta Passes Away; PM Modi Leads Condolences
Veteran Journalist Payal Mehta Passes Away; PM Modi Leads Condolences
India mourns the untimely demise of senior journalist Payal Mehta, 46, in Mumbai. PM Modi, Union Ministers, and CMs express deep sorrow for the dedicated reporter known for her insightful Parliament coverage. #PayalMehta
Senior journalist Payal Mehta, a prominent figure known for her extensive coverage of the Parliament, government, and the BJP, tragically passed away in Mumbai in the early hours of Sunday, September 20, 2026. She was 46 years old. Mehta was on a visit to Mumbai when she developed sudden uneasiness and was rushed to a hospital, where her pulse went silent before any treatment could be administered.
The news of her untimely demise sent shockwaves through the media and political fraternities, prompting an outpouring of condolences from India's top leaders. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the tributes, expressing his profound sadness.
Payal Mehta Ji was a hardworking journalist who remained firmly connected to the ground, bringing a deep understanding of national issues to her reporting,
PM Modi stated on X.
He also highlighted her kindness and warmth, extending his condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues. Home Minister Amit Shah remembered Mehta as a "thorough professional committed to delivering detailed information" and called her passing an "irreplaceable loss to the field of journalism." Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed deep shock, recalling Mehta's "great commitment and professionalism" in covering the Parliament beat, often staying from early morning until late night during sessions.
He noted her tireless dedication to her duties.
Other Union Ministers also shared their grief.
Ashwini Vaishnaw, Minister for Railways and Information and Broadcasting, mourned the loss of a "dear friend" and praised her "exemplary" dedication to reporting.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju was deeply shocked, mentioning he had just attended her father's prayer service recently, and described her as a "true professional journalist" who was a regular presence in Parliament. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma spoke of her infectious energy and how deeply she valued her relationships, conveying his deepest condolences to her family. #PayalMehta #Journalism #IndianPolitics
