Senior Congress leader and Thiruvananthapuram MP Dr Shashi TOperation Sindoor: Tharoor’s Diplomatic Edge Puts Congress in a Dilemmaharoor has stirred national headlines after publicly praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “energy, dynamism, and willingness to engage with the world,” calling it a “prime asset for India on the global stage.”
Dr Tharoor’s comments came in the wake of Operation Sindoor and India’s calibrated diplomatic outreach following the Pahalgam terror attack. Speaking on multiple platforms, he emphasised the need for bipartisan support for India’s external posture during testing times, urging that national interest should transcend party lines.
Shashi Tharoor, the celebrated Member of Parliament from Thiruvananthapuram, continues to be one of the most compelling—and controversial—figures in Indian politics. Known for his eloquence, global outlook, and independent streak, Tharoor has recently found himself at the center of a political confusion involving his party, the Indian National Congress, and his increasingly visible support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Tharoor has been actively involved in India’s diplomatic outreach following Operation Sindoor, a military response to a terror attack in Pahalgam. As head of a multi-party delegation, he visited five countries—including the United States and Russia—to articulate India’s position on cross-border terrorism. His speech at the Primakov Readings in Moscow, delivered in fluent French, drew international praise for its clarity and conviction in calling out Pakistan’s alleged support for terrorism.
In his column for The Hindu, Tharoor described the outreach as a moment of “national resolve,” emphasising the importance of unity, soft power, and public diplomacy. He also highlighted the need for India’s foreign policy to be driven by “tech, trade, and tradition”.
Praise for PM Modi: Admiration or Alignment?
What truly stirred the political pot was Tharoor’s public praise of Prime Minister Modi, calling him a “prime asset for India” on the global stage. He lauded Modi’s “energy, dynamism, and willingness to engage,” suggesting these qualities deserve broader support3.
This endorsement, though framed within the context of national interest, was seen by many as a departure from the Congress party’s usual rhetoric. The Prime Minister’s Office even shared Tharoor’s article, further fueling speculation about his political leanings.
Tharoor, however, has firmly denied any intention of switching sides. “I don’t work for the government,” he said during a U.S. visit, “but when the nation needs my service, I am always ready”.
🏛️ Congress Party’s Uneasy Embrace
The Congress leadership has responded with a mix of sarcasm, restraint, and veiled criticism. Party president Mallikarjun Kharge remarked, “Some people say ‘Modi first, country later’,” a clear jab at Tharoor’s comments6. Other leaders, like Manickam Tagore, posted cryptic warnings about “predatory birds” and “hawks” in the political skies—interpreted as metaphors for Tharoor’s perceived deviation from party lines.
Despite the tension, the Congress has stopped short of disciplinary action. Senior leader Randeep Surjewala clarified that Tharoor remains “very much part of the family,” though he flagged factual inaccuracies in Tharoor’s remarks about surgical strikes.
Tharoor himself has acknowledged “some differences of opinion” with the party but insists these will be discussed privately9.
🧭 Conclusion: A Balancing Act
Shashi Tharoor’s recent trajectory reflects the challenges of being a global-minded intellectual in a party grappling with internal cohesion and electoral relevance. His praise for Modi may be rooted in statesmanship, but it has undeniably strained his relationship with the Congress. Whether this tension leads to transformation or rupture remains to be seen—but one thing is clear: Tharoor continues to chart his own course, wings unfurled, skyward.
🔍 Strategic Proximity: What Tharoor Gains from Modi
Tharoor’s praise of PM Modi isn’t just a diplomatic nicety—it’s a calculated signal. Here’s how this closeness could benefit him:
National Statesmanship Credibility: By aligning with Modi on foreign policy, Tharoor positions himself as a bipartisan statesman, appealing to voters beyond the Congress base.
Softening BJP Resistance: His admiration for Modi’s global diplomacy may ease resistance within BJP ranks, should he ever consider a crossover or collaboration.
Global Leverage: Modi’s international stature could amplify Tharoor’s own diplomatic ambitions—possibly paving the way for a future role as India’s global envoy or even a UN-backed position2.
Kerala Calculus: In a state where the BJP is still a marginal player, Tharoor’s centrist tone could attract moderate voters disillusioned with both the Left and Congress.
🔮 Predictions: What’s Next for Tharoor?
Despite his insistence that he’s loyal to the Congress, political observers are reading between the lines—and the signs are intriguing: Some Scenarios below:
| Scenario | Likelihood | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| Remain in Congress | Moderate | He’s still a Congress MP and hasn’t crossed any formal red lines. But the party’s discomfort is growing. |
| Join BJP | Possible | Reports suggest he’s weighing options and may seek assurances from BJP leadership before making a move. |
| Launch Own Party | Unlikely | Though speculated, insiders say he lacks the grassroots machinery for a solo venture. |
| Shift to Diplomacy or Global Role | High | With his UN background and global appeal, a return to international diplomacy—perhaps as India’s global spokesperson or a Vice Presidential bid—is very much on the table. |
Final Thought:
Tharoor’s balancing act is no accident—it’s a masterclass in political optionality. By keeping doors open with Modi while maintaining nominal ties with Congress, he’s hedging for a future that could include anything from a Cabinet post to a diplomatic comeback. Whether he leaps or lingers, one thing’s certain:The surprises from Tharoor are far from over.
Tharoor in London: From airport to Podium
Yesterday, June 29th, shortly after arriving in London, Shashi Tharoor stepped straight from the runway into the limelight as the final speaker at Barkha Dutt’s acclaimed “We The Women” event. Despite jet lag, Tharoor appeared energized in conversation with Barkha, spirited and wide-ranging exchange, touching on politics, gender, diplomacy, and the personal.
In a surprise moment that added warmth to the evening, Barkha invited Tharoor’s sister on stage, weaving family into the fabric of public dialogue. And in a showstopping finale, Souparnika Nair—the young singing sensation—performed “The Winner Takes It All” in tribute to Tharoor, adding a melodic flourish to an already memorable evening.
Catch the full event here: https://youtu.be/rA5y2BZC4as
(photo credit: X, Youtube)
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