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Shashi Tharoor: Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has clarified that his public positions on select national and international issues should not be read as support for the Bharatiya Janata Party, saying his comments are shaped by a commitment to national interest rather than partisan considerations.

Speaking on Friday, Tharoor said some of his remarks may have been interpreted by sections of the media as aligning with the BJP’s stance. However, he stressed that his approach has consistently been to represent India’s broader interests, particularly on matters of foreign policy, instead of viewing them solely through a party lens.

Emphasis on National Perspective

Tharoor explained that his outlook on international issues has remained unchanged over the years. According to him, there are occasions when political debates should not overshadow the country’s larger diplomatic or strategic concerns. On such matters, he said, he prefers to speak as an Indian rather than as a party spokesperson.

He noted that this approach is neither recent nor unusual for him, adding that he has often cautioned against turning sensitive foreign policy questions into political flashpoints. In his view, doing so can weaken India’s position on the global stage.

Background of Internal Party Disagreement

The clarification follows a controversy that emerged last year after Tharoor commented on India’s diplomatic engagement with Pakistan following the Pahalgam attack. His remarks, which diverged from the Congress party’s official stand, triggered unease within sections of the party leadership.

Several Congress leaders publicly questioned his statements at the time, arguing that they appeared to depart from the party’s collective position. The episode reignited discussions around discipline within the party and the expectations placed on senior leaders when speaking on sensitive issues.

Acknowledging Party Discipline

Responding to those concerns, Tharoor acknowledged that party members are generally expected to adhere to the agreed line, especially in Parliament. He underlined that he has consistently supported the Congress during parliamentary proceedings and maintained that his record demonstrates loyalty to the organisation.

He said there was no reason for apprehension regarding his commitment, pointing out that disagreement on certain issues does not amount to defiance of the party. Tharoor added that internal debates are a natural part of a democratic political organisation.

Reaffirming Commitment to Congress

Addressing speculation about his political future, Tharoor firmly stated that he remains with the Congress and has no plans to leave. He confirmed that he will actively participate in the upcoming Kerala Assembly election campaign and work towards securing a victory for the Congress-led United Democratic Front.

Tharoor also expressed concern over repeated questions about his allegiance, suggesting that his long-standing association with the party and his public assurances should put such doubts to rest.

Meeting with Party Leadership

A day earlier, Tharoor met Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and senior leader Rahul Gandhi to discuss issues related to his recent remarks and broader concerns. Following the meeting, he indicated that the discussions were constructive and said there was mutual understanding within the leadership.

He described the outcome as positive, remarking that the party leaders were aligned in their thinking and that there were no lingering differences.

Electoral Context in Kerala

The meeting and subsequent statements come at a critical time for the Congress in Kerala. The state is heading toward Assembly elections in which the Congress-led UDF is seeking to return to power after spending a decade in opposition.

With the electoral contest expected to be closely fought, party unity and clarity of messaging are seen as crucial. Tharoor’s reassurance appears aimed at reinforcing cohesion within the party as it prepares for an intense campaign against the ruling Left Democratic Front.