The National Secretariat of the Communist Party of India issued the following statement today (August 14, 2026):

The Communist Party of India deeply mourns the passing of Sumit Sarkar, eminent historian of modern India and distinguished Marxist scholar, at the age of 87. With a long and illustrious academic career at the University of Calcutta and the University of Delhi, Sumit Sarkar made an enduring contribution to the study of India’s freedom movement, colonialism, nationalism and social history. His pioneering The Swadeshi Movement in Bengal, 1903–1908, Modern India, 1885–1947, Writing Social History, Beyond Nationalist Frames and other works established him as one of the most influential historians of his generation. His scholarship brought class, caste, community, gender and the experiences of ordinary people into the understanding of modern Indian history.

Sumit Sarkar was also deeply associated with the progressive and Marxist intellectual tradition in India and had a long association with the Communist Party of India. His rigorous scholarship, critical approach to established historical narratives and steadfast commitment to secularism, democracy and social justice enriched the country’s intellectual life. He was an important voice against communal and majoritarian interpretations of Indian history and remained committed to a rational, critical and people-centred understanding of the past. His writings and intellectual interventions will continue to influence generations of students, historians and progressive thinkers.

The CPI pays its respectful homage to the memory of Sumit Sarkar and acknowledges his immense contribution to Indian historiography and the progressive intellectual movement. The Party conveys its heartfelt condolences to Prof. Tanika Sarkar, his family, colleagues, students and the countless admirers of his scholarship and intellectual contributions. His passing is a profound loss to the academic community, the progressive movement and all those committed to defending India’s secular, democratic and plural traditions.

Sd/-

Roykutty

Office Secretary