Facing criticism from within his party, senior Congress leader and Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor broke his silence on Thursday (May 15, 2025) over remarks that reportedly contradicted the party's official position on the India-Pakistan conflict and Operation Sindoor.

Responding to accusations that he had “crossed the Lakshman Rekha”—a phrase used by party leaders during a Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting—Tharoor clarified that his statements were entirely personal, made in his individual capacity as an Indian citizen, and not as a representative of the Congress party.

“At a time of conflict, I spoke solely as an Indian, making no pretence of representing anyone else,” Tharoor said, distancing himself from speculation about internal disagreements with the party.

Tharoor’s Stand: Individual Viewpoint, Not Party Voice

The Congress MP made it clear that he was not a spokesperson for the Congress or the central government, and his comments were simply meant to contribute to the national discourse during a time of geopolitical tension.

“You may agree or disagree with what I said, but it is my personal view. Blame me, not the party,” he remarked during a media interaction.

Tharoor had earlier expressed his perspective on India’s approach to the conflict with Pakistan, and urged international support for India’s side, noting that India’s viewpoint is underrepresented abroad, especially in countries like the U.S., Europe, and the Middle East.

Congress Reacts: ‘Lakshman Rekha’ Crossed

Sources from the CWC meeting held at 24 Akbar Road, New Delhi, on Wednesday indicated that top leaders expressed discontent over Tharoor’s public remarks, especially those seen as aligning closely with the government’s stance on security.

The meeting was attended by Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, KC Venugopal, Jairam Ramesh, Sachin Pilot, and Tharoor himself, among others. Post-meeting, some senior leaders noted that “individual opinions are welcome in a democracy,” but “this time Tharoor has crossed the Lakshman Rekha.”

Another insider revealed that although Tharoor offered “constructive suggestions” during the meeting, a clear message was delivered to all members: the party must present a united front, especially during national security crises.

Tharoor Reiterates: Support for Government on Terrorism

Despite the internal row, Tharoor reaffirmed his full support for the Indian government’s counterterrorism operations, especially after the recent Pahalgam attack which claimed multiple lives.

“I am 100 per cent supporting the government in going after the terrorists,” he declared, adding that the government had identified the attackers and vowed relentless pursuit.

“Terrorism is a distinct issue. Regardless of politics, we must unite behind national security,” Tharoor stated, underscoring that support for anti-terror operations does not necessarily mean political agreement on all fronts.

No Official Reprimand Yet, Only Media Buzz

Amidst reports of internal disciplinary murmurs, Tharoor clarified that he had not received any formal communication from the party leadership regarding his remarks.

“I’ve only seen media reports. No official party message has been conveyed to me,” he said.

He expressed hope that the Congress, known for its democratic values, will allow room for dissenting views, even in sensitive times.

National Interest Over Party Line?

Political observers note that Tharoor’s statements—particularly those recognising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s decisive actions against terrorism—could be perceived as departures from the Congress narrative, which has cautioned against militarisation and jingoism.

Tharoor's comments also stood in stark contrast to those of fellow Congress leaders who have called out the Modi government’s foreign and security policy missteps in recent weeks.

This isn't the first time Tharoor has found himself at odds with the party's mainstream stance. However, the timing of his remarks, amid rising nationalist sentiment following Operation Sindoor and ceasefire negotiations, may have amplified internal tensions.

BJP Reacts: ‘Super BJP Man’ Remark Sparks New Row

Adding to the political drama, a Congress leader, under condition of anonymity, criticised Tharoor, reportedly referring to him as a “Super BJP man” for praising the Modi government's approach during the Indo-Pak tension. The jibe indicates growing frustration within some quarters of the Congress over Tharoor’s independent tone.

Tharoor Continues to Defend His Role in International Advocacy

Earlier this week, Tharoor had taken aim at Donald Trump, criticising the former U.S. President’s claim that he had averted a nuclear war between India and Pakistan. Tharoor said Trump's assertions were misleading, and detrimental to India’s global image.

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