In a development stirring debate within Indian political circles, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has taken a measured and diplomatic stance on the issue of party MP Shashi Tharoor's public praise for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, following the Operation Sindoor outreach program. Tharoor’s recent remarks in favour of PM Modi’s “energy and dynamism” triggered a sharp reaction from multiple Congress leaders, igniting speculation about his political leanings. However, Kharge addressed the media in New Delhi on Wednesday, defending Tharoor’s position within the party and emphasizing unity, discipline, and national interest over personal opinions.

While Kharge’s statement subtly hinted at discontent, it was also clear that the Congress would not be initiating any disciplinary action against Tharoor. “For us, the nation comes first — but some say ‘Modi first and nation second’. What can we do about that?” said Kharge in a veiled jab, making his dissatisfaction apparent while sidestepping direct confrontation. This measured response underscores the delicate balance within the Congress Working Committee (CWC), where over 60 members, including special invitees, bring diverse perspectives.

The controversy began after the Modi government appointed Shashi Tharoor as a lead in one of the outreach teams under Operation Sindoor, an initiative aimed at enhancing India’s global diplomatic narrative post a strategic international mission. Tharoor, an acclaimed author, diplomat, and parliamentarian, expressed admiration for the Prime Minister’s “ability to project India’s voice with clarity and conviction”, especially during global diplomatic interactions.

In his op-ed published in The Hindu, titled “Lessons from Operation Sindoor’s global outreach”, Tharoor praised PM Modi’s energy and willingness to engage internationally. He stated, “PM Modi’s energy, dynamism, and willingness to engage remain a prime asset for India on the global stage but deserve greater backing.” He elaborated that India’s unified diplomatic response post-Operation Sindoor demonstrated the nation's potential when domestic politics are set aside for international solidarity.

This piece triggered a wave of criticism from within his own party, notably from Congress leaders Pawan Khera and Udit Raj, who questioned Tharoor’s intentions and hinted at a soft corner for the BJP. The reactions, fueled by social media, also sparked rumours of Tharoor’s possible switch to the BJP, which he categorically denied. He clarified that his appreciation of the Prime Minister’s performance was not a sign of political defection, but a matter of acknowledging effectiveness in diplomacy, irrespective of party lines.

Tharoor’s long-standing image as an independent thinker within the Congress ecosystem came to the fore again. Known for his articulate speeches and global experience, Tharoor has often voiced opinions that diverge from the Congress line, though he continues to enjoy significant influence and popularity. His inclusion in the CWC by Kharge himself underscores that intellectual diversity within the party is not only tolerated but at times encouraged.

At the press briefing, Kharge was asked directly whether any action would be taken against Tharoor. His response was both dismissive of the speculation and firm on party unity: “People will write what they feel like, we don’t want to get involved in all that. We want unity for the nation, and we will keep fighting for the nation.” He added that Tharoor’s views are personal, not reflective of the party’s official stance, and that Congress remains focused on “saving the nation”.

Kharge further clarified that in a party comprising numerous voices, especially among the 34 core CWC members and 30 special invitees, there will naturally be differences in articulation and interpretation. This plurality of thought, according to him, should not be confused with indiscipline or dissent.

Nonetheless, the incident has exposed ideological fissures within the Congress. For many party loyalists, especially those opposing the current BJP-led government vehemently, Tharoor’s open admiration of Modi's leadership, even on foreign policy matters, appears to blur political boundaries. This leads to internal unease about message discipline and public perception, especially at a time when the Congress is trying to present a united opposition front.

At the heart of the debate lies a broader philosophical question — can a leader from the opposition acknowledge a rival leader’s success without being branded a defector? Tharoor’s defenders argue that his views reflect mature bipartisan conduct, essential in matters of national importance. Critics within the party, however, argue that such public admiration dilutes the ideological contrast that Congress is trying to draw ahead of upcoming electoral battles.

The Operation Sindoor outreach program, now at the centre of this controversy, has become a diplomatic showcase for India. With leaders from across parties participating, the program aims to project a cohesive national image abroad. It is this non-partisan approach, Tharoor argues, that justifies his involvement and appreciation of the initiative, rather than allegiance to the ruling party.

Adding to the complexity, Tharoor remains a top Congress voice from Kerala, a state where BJP has struggled for electoral inroads, and his actions could carry implications for future political alignments in the region. His recent writings and statements have fueled intense media speculation, and while he has denied any intent to join BJP, public sentiment remains divided.

Kharge’s decision to defend Tharoor rather than discipline him signals a pragmatic, inclusive strategy by the Congress leadership — one that tolerates ideological deviation as long as party loyalty is intact. This also points to an effort to broaden the Congress's appeal by accommodating leaders who can bridge divides and appeal to centrist voters.

In closing, the current episode underscores the evolving dynamics of Indian political discourse. At a time when national interest intersects with political strategy, the ability to acknowledge merit across party lines without triggering internal backlash remains a tightrope walk. Whether Kharge’s soft stance strengthens internal cohesion or opens the floodgates to similar assertions, remains to be seen. But for now, Shashi Tharoor’s position within the Congress seems secure, and the party appears determined to navigate internal differences with strategic patience — a sign of both maturity and political calculation in a rapidly shifting landscape.

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