BREAKING: Former Union Minister Girija Vyas Passes Away at 79 After Tragic Burn Injuries

Udaipur, May 1, 2025 — Former Union Minister and senior Congress leader Dr. Girija Vyas has passed away at the age of 79. She breathed her last at Zydus Hospital in Ahmedabad around 7:15 PM on Thursday. Her death comes nearly a month after she sustained severe burn injuries during Ganagaur Puja at her Udaipur residence.

Dr. Vyas was 90% burnt after her chunni (veil) caught fire from a ceremonial lamp during the rituals on March 31. Though her condition initially showed signs of improvement, her health deteriorated over the last two days, according to her brother Gopal Sharma. Her body will be brought back to Udaipur, and the funeral is scheduled for Friday at 4 PM.

A Stalwart of Women’s Rights and Public Service

Girija Vyas was known for her tireless work for women’s welfare. She served as a Union Minister, Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee (RPCC) president, and was the Chairperson of the National Commission for Women (NCW). During her NCW tenure, she spearheaded numerous initiatives for gender equality and protection of women’s rights.

She contested her last assembly election in 2018 from the Udaipur City constituency but lost to BJP’s Gulab Chand Kataria. A close confidante of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, Vyas remained a respected figure in the Congress party.

Accident Details: Ganagaur Puja Tragedy

The incident occurred on March 31, 2025, at her residence in Detya Magri, Udaipur, while performing Ganagaur Puja. A burning lamp accidentally set her veil on fire. A domestic helper quickly responded and managed to extinguish the flames. She was first taken to a private hospital in Udaipur and then shifted to Ahmedabad due to the severity of her condition.

Academic and Personal Background

Born in Nathdwara, Rajsamand district, Dr. Vyas came from a patriotic and educational family—her father was a freedom fighter, and her mother a school teacher. She completed her graduation and post-graduation from Udaipur University (now MLSU), followed by a Ph.D. from Delhi University. She also served as a professor of philosophy at Sukhadia University in Udaipur before entering politics.

Funeral Arrangements

Her mortal remains will be brought to Udaipur on Friday, with the last rites scheduled at 4:00 PM. The Congress party, as well as leaders across political lines, are expected to attend and pay homage to a leader who contributed immensely to women’s empowerment, education, and public service in India.