Congress Rebukes Tharoor Over Praise for Modi
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge issued a stinging rebuke of senior party leader Shashi Tharoor, accusing him of placing Prime Minister Narendra Modi above the interests of the country. The sharp criticism came after Tharoor’s recent praise for Modi’s global diplomacy and handling of Operation Sindoor, which has triggered a wave of dissent within party ranks.
Kharge, addressing reporters, remarked pointedly, “For our party, the country comes first. But for some, Modi comes first, country comes later.” The comment was clearly directed at Tharoor, whose public remarks in support of Modi’s foreign policy and crisis management have become increasingly frequent.
Kharge acknowledged Tharoor’s reputation for articulate writing but added with a touch of sarcasm, “I may not be good at English, but I do understand. That’s why we made him a member of the CWC.” Despite the underlying criticism, Kharge stopped short of calling for disciplinary action, stating that the Congress party values unity and maturity in leadership, especially during sensitive national moments.
Modi-first Sentiment Sparks Uproar
Tharoor’s recent interviews and articles have praised Modi as a statesman with international appeal, calling him a “prime asset on the world stage.” These statements, while not directly partisan, have raised eyebrows within Congress, which has traditionally positioned itself in direct ideological opposition to the BJP and Modi’s governance model.
The timing of Tharoor’s remarks, during the aftermath of Operation Sindoor and India’s delicate foreign engagements, added to the discomfort. Many within the party viewed his praise as undermining the collective Congress narrative, which remains critical of Modi on most policy fronts.
Tharoor Responds with Defiance
Soon after Kharge’s statement, Tharoor took to social media and posted a cryptic message: “Don’t ask permission to fly. The wings are yours and the sky belongs to no one.” Though he did not name anyone, the post was widely interpreted as a subtle but firm response to the criticism.
This isn’t the first time Tharoor has found himself at odds with the Congress high command. Known for his independent thinking, he has often walked a fine line between constructive dissent and perceived deviation from party discipline.
Congress Leadership Tries to Contain Rift
While Kharge attempted to downplay the possibility of punitive action, the episode has once again exposed fault lines within the Congress. Senior leaders privately acknowledge that ideological discipline within the party has weakened, especially as prominent figures seek to differentiate themselves ahead of state and national elections.
Though the leadership is currently adopting a wait-and-watch approach, insiders suggest the growing divergence of views may become harder to ignore if Tharoor continues with public statements that are seen as too conciliatory towards the BJP leadership.
The Congress party now faces a familiar challenge: how to manage charismatic voices within its fold without compromising collective messaging, especially as it prepares to reposition itself in an evolving political landscape.
