Shashi Tharoor MP, whose frequent praise of the Central Government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made him unpopular within the Congress party, is now the subject of growing speculation that he may quit the party. However, sources indicate that instead of joining the BJP, Tharoor has reportedly been offered several high-ranking positions, including the post of Vice President.
His inclusion in the all-party delegation formed by the Centre for Operation Sindoor, followed by statements supportive of Modi and the Central Government, has further angered the Congress leadership. Tharoor’s dismissal of the Congress allegation that the US was involved in the India-Pakistan ceasefire, and his rebuttal of Rahul Gandhi’s remark that "Narendra Modi surrendered to the US," have intensified dissatisfaction within the party.
Reports suggest that after the Nilambur by-election, the KPCC (Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee) may seek strong disciplinary action against Tharoor, citing his anti-party stance. While Congress has opposed his favourable statements towards the BJP and the Centre, Tharoor has countered that he is speaking in the national interest. It is also reported that he is undeterred by criticism from Congress leaders and enjoys strong backing from the BJP and the Centre. Tharoor has also stated that he will follow his own path if the party fails to understand that it is the people who want him.
With the current Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s term ending in 2027, speculation is rife that Tharoor may be considered for the post. It is also believed that the Centre may offer him other high-ranking positions prior to that. Reports further suggest that if he decides to leave the party, he may resign his MP post, giving BJP a potential opening in Thiruvananthapuram.
In an interview to a news agency, Tharoor asked, "How can working in the national interest be considered anti-party?" He further questioned, "Is it so difficult to be a patriot in our country today?" Referring to the work of the all-party delegation, Tharoor added that he is focused on a mission and is not concerned about what some people are saying.
