Summary: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor’s latest post featuring Union Minister Piyush Goyal fuels speculation over his ties with the party. The post follows controversy over his praise for Kerala’s LDF government.
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor’s recent social media post featuring Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and British Secretary of State for Trade Jonathan Reynolds has set political circles abuzz. The image, posted on X (formerly Twitter), comes at a time when Mr. Tharoor’s relationship with the Congress appears strained following his praise of Kerala’s ruling CPM-led Left Democratic Front (LDF) government.
The Controversial Post
On Tuesday morning, Mr. Tharoor shared a smiling photograph of himself alongside Mr. Goyal and Mr. Reynolds, highlighting their discussion on the long-stalled India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
“Good to exchange words with Jonathan Reynolds, Britain’s Secretary of State for Business and Trade, in the company of his Indian counterpart, Commerce and Industries Minister Piyush Goyal. The long-stalled FTA negotiations have been revived, which is most welcome.”
While the post seemed routine, political observers quickly linked it to the ongoing tensions between Mr. Tharoor and his party.
Congress vs. Tharoor: The Growing Rift
The latest friction between Mr. Tharoor and the Congress stemmed from his recent praise of Kerala’s economic policies under the LDF government. The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF), which serves as the primary opposition in the state, viewed his comments as a deviation from the party line.
Congress’ official mouthpiece, Veekshanam Daily, criticized Mr. Tharoor, arguing that such remarks weakened the party’s stance against the LDF’s governance. The publication even called his praise “suicidal” at a time when the Congress is actively critiquing the ruling government’s failures.
The controversy arose from an article penned by Mr. Tharoor in an English daily, where he highlighted Kerala’s progress, particularly in the startup sector. Following backlash, Mr. Tharoor clarified that his intent was not to endorse the CPM but to acknowledge Kerala’s growth in specific domains.
However, the damage was already done. The Congress leadership took note of his remarks, fueling speculation about an internal rift.
Tharoor’s Praise for PM Modi Adds Fuel to Fire
This was not the first instance of Mr. Tharoor’s remarks causing a stir within the party. His previous comments on Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also drawn criticism.
During a discussion on India’s international negotiations, Mr. Tharoor referenced former U.S. President Donald Trump’s statement that Mr. Modi was a “tough negotiator.”
“To hear a man like Donald Trump, whose Defence Secretary called him ‘the greatest negotiator in the world’, announcing the Indian Prime Minister is a better negotiator… that sounds like something Mr. Modi can put in the bank, that sounds very good.”
These remarks did not sit well with Congress members, who interpreted them as an implicit endorsement of the Prime Minister’s leadership on global platforms.
Tharoor’s Response: “No Comments at All”
As speculation over his political future grew, Mr. Tharoor remained tight-lipped. When asked by reporters whether “all is well between you and the party,” he responded with a terse “no comments at all.” He then deflected the conversation by drawing attention to the India-Pakistan cricket match.
His nonchalant response has only fueled further speculation about his political trajectory.
What’s Next for Shashi Tharoor?
Mr. Tharoor, a four-time MP from Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram, has often been seen as a leader with independent views. While he remains a Congress member, his recent statements and actions suggest a widening gap with the party’s central leadership.
Political analysts believe that his recent engagements with BJP ministers and neutral stance on key issues could indicate a shift in his political alignment. However, Mr. Tharoor has made no official statement regarding his future course of action.
Congress’ Dilemma: Balancing Leadership and Loyalty
For the Congress, Mr. Tharoor’s growing independence presents a challenge. The party has been working to maintain unity and strengthen its position against both the BJP at the national level and the LDF in Kerala. A high-profile leader like Mr. Tharoor publicly deviating from the party’s stance can create internal discord.
However, sidelining a leader of his stature could also be detrimental, especially given his appeal among young and urban voters.
Shashi Tharoor’s recent post with Union Minister Piyush Goyal has once again placed him at the center of political speculation. As he continues to walk a fine line between party loyalty and personal convictions, the coming months will be crucial in determining his role within the Congress – or beyond.
With key elections on the horizon, whether Mr. Tharoor remains a steadfast Congress leader or explores new political avenues remains to be seen. One thing, however, is clear: his independent approach is stirring conversations far beyond the confines of his party.
FAQs
1. Why did Shashi Tharoor’s selfie with Piyush Goyal spark controversy?
His post comes amid growing tensions with Congress, following his praise for Kerala’s LDF government and previous comments on Prime Minister Modi’s leadership. The image was perceived as a potential sign of a shift in his political stance.
2. Has Shashi Tharoor left Congress?
No, Shashi Tharoor remains a Congress MP. However, his recent statements and interactions have fueled speculation about his political future.
3. What did Congress say about Tharoor’s remarks on Kerala’s LDF government?
Congress’ mouthpiece Veekshanam Daily criticized his praise for Kerala’s economic growth under the LDF, calling it “suicidal” and arguing that it weakens the opposition’s stance.
4. What did Tharoor say about PM Modi’s negotiation skills?
Mr. Tharoor acknowledged that former U.S. President Donald Trump had praised PM Modi as a “tough negotiator,” and stated that such a remark was significant. This statement did not sit well with Congress leaders.
5. What is the significance of Tharoor’s post with Piyush Goyal?
The image suggests cordial relations with BJP leaders at a time when his ties with Congress appear strained, fueling speculation about his political trajectory.