Introduction
A political controversy has emerged following Congress MP Shashi Tharoor’s decision to lead a multi-party delegation abroad at the Centre’s invitation. The Kerala unit of the Indian National Congress has sought to distance itself from the issue, urging the party’s central leadership to take a clear stand. The development has sparked debates both within and outside the party over protocol, political strategy, and party discipline.
Tharoor’s Participation Sparks Row
Shashi Tharoor, a senior Congress leader and Member of Parliament from Thiruvananthapuram, recently accepted an invitation from the central government to head a multi-party delegation abroad. The purpose of the delegation is to present India’s position on terrorism, specifically to counter Pakistan’s narrative at various international forums. The invitation was extended by Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju.
While Tharoor accepted the invitation, stating it was in line with his commitment to national interest and foreign policy experience, the decision soon turned controversial. Notably, Tharoor’s name was not among those submitted by the Congress party when the Centre initially sought nominees for the delegation. This omission has raised eyebrows and led to questions about protocol and the internal coordination within the Congress.
Tharoor Defends His Decision
Responding to the controversy, Tharoor defended his acceptance of the invitation. He emphasized that he did not see any political angle in the matter and saw it purely as a service to the nation.
“I saw no politics in it. I have served in the field of foreign affairs for decades and have represented India at international platforms. When the Union Minister approached me formally with this proposal, I agreed without hesitation,” said Tharoor.
He further clarified that his acceptance was based on merit and experience, and should not be interpreted as defiance of party protocol.
Kerala Congress Reacts Cautiously
In Kerala, the Congress unit has taken a cautious stance. Leader of the Opposition in the Kerala Assembly and senior Congress leader V.D. Satheesan addressed the media on the sidelines of a function in Paravur, distancing the state unit from the matter.
“The central leadership of the party should express its opinion about it. Whatever their view is, we also share it,” Satheesan said, underlining that the state unit will align with the national party’s final position on the issue.
This statement indicates that while the Kerala Congress is not outright condemning Tharoor’s actions, it prefers to let the central leadership handle the matter, thereby avoiding direct confrontation or internal conflict.
Party Protocol vs. Personal Initiative
The issue has brought to light a deeper conflict within the Congress party — the tension between individual initiatives by senior leaders and the broader framework of party protocol. Critics within the party argue that Tharoor should have refrained from accepting the invitation unless it was routed through the party leadership. They fear that such moves may weaken the collective strength of the party and create confusion about its official stance.
Supporters of Tharoor, on the other hand, believe that the national interest must come above party politics. They argue that his experience in foreign affairs and global diplomacy makes him a suitable candidate for such a role and that declining the invitation might have sent the wrong message internationally.
Congress Central Leadership Yet to Respond
As of now, the Congress central leadership has not issued an official statement on the matter. The delay in response has left room for speculation. Political observers believe that the leadership may be evaluating the implications of the issue before taking a clear stand. Some within the party are reportedly pushing for a measured response that acknowledges Tharoor’s capabilities while also emphasizing the need for adherence to party processes.
Political Reactions Across the Spectrum
The BJP has welcomed Tharoor’s inclusion in the delegation, calling it a positive step toward bipartisan unity on matters of national importance. BJP leaders have also used the opportunity to criticize the Congress for its internal contradictions and alleged lack of coordination.
Other opposition parties have largely remained silent, choosing not to involve themselves in the internal affairs of the Congress. However, political analysts view this development as a test for the Congress party’s unity and internal coherence, especially in the run-up to future electoral battles.
