Senior Journalist Payal Mehta Passes Away
Colleagues mourn the untimely death of veteran reporter, remember her dedication and fearless journalism
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 20th Sept: Senior journalist Payal Mehta, who was associated with CNN-News18, died in Mumbai in the early hours of Sunday at the age of 46. Mehta was visiting Mumbai when she reportedly developed uneasiness around 2 am and was taken to a hospital. She died before treatment could be administered, according to accounts shared by fellow journalists. The cause of death has not been officially disclosed.
Mehta was widely known for her reporting on Parliament, the Central government and the BJP. She had been active on the political and parliamentary beats for several years and was regarded by colleagues as a committed reporter with a strong understanding of national affairs. Her professional profile identifies her as an Assistant Editor with CNN-News18.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled Mehta’s death, describing her as a hardworking and dedicated journalist who remained closely connected with the ground and brought a deep understanding of national issues to her reporting. He also remembered her warmth and kindness towards people around her.
Home Minister Amit Shah also paid tribute to Mehta, remembering her professionalism and detailed coverage of issues. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recalled her commitment to the Parliament beat, saying she would often be present from early morning until late at night during parliamentary sessions.
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge remembered Mehta as a hardworking and diligent journalist with a keen understanding of public affairs. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also offered condolences to her family, friends and colleagues. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Union Minister Kiren Rijiju were among others who expressed grief over her passing.
Fadnavis recalled Mehta’s dedication to journalism and her regular interactions with him when he was in New Delhi. Sarma, who said he had known her for a long time, remembered her energy and the importance she placed on professional and personal relationships.
Mehta’s colleagues also recalled her extensive experience as a political reporter and her presence during major developments in Parliament and national politics.
A former group editor who worked with Mehta during her 2008-09 stint with Focus TV’s Mumbai bureau recalled her as a determined reporter who took on assignments with enthusiasm and consistently delivered strong reports. After moving to Delhi, she continued working with national television networks and built a reputation for being present wherever major news was unfolding.
Global Governance News Group expressed its deepest condolences on Mehta’s untimely passing. The organisation remembered her contribution to journalism, her commitment to reporting and the respect she commanded among colleagues across the media fraternity.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to Payal Mehta’s family, friends, colleagues and everyone whose life she touched. Her dedication to journalism and contribution to the profession will be remembered with respect. May her soul rest in eternal peace. Om Shanti.”
Mehta’s sudden passing has prompted an outpouring of grief from journalists and public figures across the political spectrum, marking the loss of a familiar face from India’s political and parliamentary reporting community.
