Senior journalist and Assistant Editor at CNN-News18, Payal Mehta, passed away suddenly in Mumbai in the early hours of Sunday.
She was 46. Known for her authoritative reporting on Parliament, the Union government, and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Mehta’s untimely death has sent shockwaves through India’s media and political fraternities.
According to senior journalist Sheela Bhatt, Mehta developed sudden uneasiness while visiting Mumbai and was rushed to a nearby hospital around 2:00 AM. Medical personnel were unable to administer treatment before her pulse went silent.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief over her passing, remembering her as a dedicated journalist firmly grounded in reality.
“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 posted on X, sharing a photograph with the journalist. “Her sudden and untimely passing is extremely saddening. My condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues. May they find strength in this difficult hour. Om Shanti.”
Payal Mehta Ji was a hardworking journalist who remained firmly connected to the ground, bringing 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. Her sudden and… pic.twitter.com/4uG7MmzGol
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 20, 2026
Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi also offered his heartfelt condolences, acknowledging her contribution to the field.
Saddened by the untimely demise of journalist Payal Mehta ji, who covered Parliament.
My sincere condolences to her family, friends and colleagues.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) September 20, 2026
Union Home Minister Amit Shah hailed Mehta as a thorough professional dedicated to detailed and nuanced reporting, describing her passing as an “irreplaceable loss” for Indian journalism.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed profound shock, highlighting her tireless work ethic during Parliamentary sessions where she would remain present from early morning until late at night.
Tributes poured in from across the political spectrum:
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Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge praised her keen understanding of public affairs and diligent journalism.
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Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju recalled her presence on the Parliament beat, noting how regular and professional she was in her work.
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Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, and Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis also remembered her warmth, infectious energy, and sharp analytical skills on the field.
With over 15 years in journalism across major networks—including CNN-News18, Republic TV, NewsX, Focus TV, and ANI—Payal Mehta was widely respected for her integrity, professionalism, and warm relationships across political lines. Her sudden departure leaves a profound void in national political reporting.
