Journalist Payal Mehta passes away in Mumbai, PM Modi expresses grief

Journalist Payal Mehta, Assistant Editor at CNN-News18, died in Mumbai early Sunday. She was 46.

According to colleagues, Mehta developed uneasiness late on Saturday night and was rushed to a hospital around 2 am. Doctors reportedly found no pulse when she arrived, and she could not be revived.

News of her sudden death prompted tributes from political leaders and members of the media fraternity.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over Mehta’s death, describing her as a hardworking journalist who remained closely connected to the ground and brought a deep understanding of national issues to her reporting.

“Beyond her work, she will be remembered for the kindness and warmth with which she touched so many lives,” Modi said in a post on X, offering condolences to her family, friends and colleagues.

Defence minister Rajnath Singh also expressed shock at her untimely death and recalled her work covering Parliament.

Singh said Mehta covered Parliament beat with “great commitment and professionalism”, noting that she would often be present from early morning until late at night during Parliament sessions.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also condoled Mehta’s death, remembering her as a “hardworking and diligent journalist” who covered Parliament and had a keen understanding of public affairs.

“Her untimely passing is deeply distressing,” Kharge said, extending his condolences to her family, friends and colleagues.

Mehta’s sudden death has prompted an outpouring of grief among journalists and those who worked with her, with colleagues remembering her for her professional dedication and warmth.

With IANS inputs