Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has downplayed speculation about internal rifts within the party, asserting that he has been loyal to the Congress for 16 years and believes any differences should be handled privately.
In an exclusive interview with NDTV, Tharoor addressed questions about recent controversies, including his reported absence from the campaign trail in the Nilambur by-election in Kerala. “If there are any differences, they should be discussed behind closed doors with the people concerned and that is where I want to leave it,” he stated.
Tharoor acknowledged that disagreements may exist with “some elements of the leadership,” but emphasized that this is not the time to air such concerns publicly. He added that over the years, he has built meaningful relationships with many party workers and leaders, reinforcing his commitment to the party.
The controversy surrounding Tharoor deepened after the government’s decision to include him in its global outreach for Operation Sindoor — a move that reportedly irked Congress’s Kerala unit. Despite criticism from some within his party for his remarks on the mission, Tharoor maintained he had always supported Congress initiatives and candidates.
Addressing the Nilambur incident, Tharoor clarified that his comments were misinterpreted. “It was a response to a Malayalam question. I wished the Congress candidate success. He is a friend, and I believe Congress workers’ efforts should be rewarded with victory,” he explained, reiterating that he did indeed participate in the campaign.
Tharoor has faced backlash from some Congress leaders, being labeled a “super spokesperson” for what critics call the BJP’s publicity campaigns. Despite this, the central leadership previously stepped in to prevent further division within the Kerala unit of the party in view of upcoming elections.
However, Tharoor’s exclusion from the party’s recommended list for participation in all-party international delegations indicated continued reservations within the central leadership.
Still, Tharoor remains resolute in his stance: loyalty to the Congress, open dialogue behind the scenes, and a continued focus on party unity.
