Key Points:
- Shashi Tharoor criticized Congress’ lack of leadership in Kerala and urged the party to expand its voter base ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.
- He praised Kerala’s LDF government for its industrial policies and Prime Minister Modi’s global diplomacy, drawing backlash from Congress leaders.
- Tharoor dismissed rumors of switching parties but warned he has “options” if Congress sidelines him.
- The controversy highlights internal rifts within Congress and Tharoor’s dissatisfaction with the party’s organizational structure.
New Delhi: Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has once again found himself at the center of political debate after making pointed remarks about his party’s leadership and strategy in Kerala. Speaking on Varthamanam, a Malayalam podcast, the four-time MP from Thiruvananthapuram flagged the “absence of a leader” in Kerala’s Congress unit and warned that if the party fails to broaden its appeal, it risks remaining in opposition for a third consecutive term.
Tharoor’s comments come amid growing speculation about his future in Congress, fueled by his recent praise for Kerala’s Left Democratic Front (LDF) government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s foreign policy achievements. These statements have sparked backlash from Congress leaders, who view them as undermining the party’s position ahead of crucial elections.
Praise for Rivals: A Political Storm
Tharoor lauded the LDF government for fostering Kerala’s startup ecosystem and improving its ease-of-doing-business ranking. In an article published earlier this month, he highlighted that Kerala achieved a 254% compound annual growth rate in its startup sector between 2021 and 2023 far exceeding global averages. His acknowledgment of these achievements was warmly received by LDF leaders but angered Congress members, who accused him of providing ammunition to their political rivals.
Additionally, Tharoor commended Prime Minister Modi’s meeting with former US President Donald Trump, noting it underscored India’s growing global importance. While clarifying that his remarks were fact-based and non-political, Tharoor stated that he speaks as an independent MP representing his constituency rather than strictly adhering to party lines.
Tharoor Hints at “Options” Amid Internal Discontent
Tharoor’s dissatisfaction with Congress is not new. Reports suggest he recently met Rahul Gandhi to express concerns about being sidelined within the party. He reportedly questioned whether he should focus on state politics or take on a different role within the organization. Tharoor also voiced frustration over being removed from leadership roles in initiatives like the All India Professional Congress (AIPC), which he founded.
In his podcast interview, Tharoor hinted at having “options” if Congress no longer required his services. “I have my books, speeches, and invitations from across the world,” he said, emphasizing that he is not entirely dependent on the party for his political career. However, he dismissed rumors of switching parties, stating that he does not believe in “jumping ships.”
Congress Reacts: Divided Opinions
The controversy has exposed internal divisions within Congress. While some leaders dismissed speculation about Tharoor leaving the party, others criticized his remarks as damaging. Senior leader K M Muraleedharan urged Tharoor to resolve any grievances internally, adding that his contributions are valuable at both state and national levels.
Meanwhile, Veekshanam Daily Congress’ Kerala mouthpiece published an editorial indirectly criticizing Tharoor for praising the LDF government. The editorial accused him of betraying party workers’ expectations ahead of local body elections.
Support from Rivals
Interestingly, Tharoor’s remarks have earned him praise from unexpected quarters. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan commended him for presenting factual data on Kerala’s development under LDF governance. CPM State Secretary M V Govindan also lauded Tharoor’s acknowledgment of industrial growth in Kerala.
On the other hand, BJP leaders used the controversy to criticize both UDF and LDF alliances in Kerala. Former Union Minister Prakash Javadekar accused both fronts of staging a “mock fight” while highlighting BJP-led initiatives that have bolstered India’s startup ecosystem.
A Wake-Up Call for Congress?
As Kerala gears up for Assembly elections in 2026, Tharoor’s remarks serve as both a challenge and an opportunity for Congress. His criticisms highlight the need for stronger leadership and organizational reforms within the party to attract non-traditional voters. However, they also risk alienating party loyalists who view such statements as undermining collective efforts.
For now, Shashi Tharoor remains a polarizing figure within Indian politics a leader unafraid to speak his mind but one whose candidness often sparks controversy. Whether Congress leverages his appeal or sidelines him further will likely shape both his political future and the party’s trajectory in Kerala.
