Thiruvananthapuram: Senior Congress MP Shashi Tharoor is once again raising eyebrows with his seemingly rebellious stance towards the party. Known for maintaining an ambiguous relationship with Congress while being notably close to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Tharoor has continuously distanced himself from Congress at every opportunity. His recent decision to skip a crucial meeting between Kerala Congress leaders and All India Congress Committee (AICC) chief Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi has ignited speculation about his loyalty to the party.
The meeting, scheduled for today, January 23, at 2:30 PM, is significant as it aims to discuss strategies ahead of the upcoming Kerala Assembly elections. However, sources indicate that Tharoor, a four-time MP, will not be attending. This absence is particularly noteworthy given the timing, as it signals possible discontent with the Congress leadership, especially following an incident where Tharoor reportedly felt slighted by Rahul Gandhi during a recent visit to Kerala.
According to close associates of Tharoor, he believed he did not receive the respect he deserved from Gandhi, which has contributed to his decision to distance himself from the meeting. This sentiment of feeling undervalued has sparked further discussions about Tharoor’s dissatisfaction with the Congress hierarchy. His absence from this critical meeting has raised eyebrows among party members, who are now questioning his commitment to Congress, especially with elections on the horizon.
Tharoor’s recent participation in a Central Bureau of Communication (CBC) meeting, while avoiding gatherings with Rahul Gandhi, has only fueled the unrest within the Kerala Congress. Party insiders are expressing concern that Tharoor’s actions could indicate a deeper rift and potential rebellion against the established leadership. The situation has led to animated discussions within the party ranks, particularly as they prepare for the forthcoming elections.
As the Congress party grapples with internal factions and the looming electoral battle, Tharoor’s stance poses a significant challenge. The growing dissatisfaction among key leaders like him may hinder the party’s coherence and strategy in Kerala. Observers are keenly watching how this situation unfolds, as the party struggles to maintain unity and momentum in the face of a competitive political landscape.
In conclusion, Shashi Tharoor’s decision to skip the meeting with AICC leaders has sent shockwaves through the Kerala Congress, highlighting ongoing tensions within the party. As the elections approach, Tharoor’s actions will be pivotal in shaping the party’s future direction and its ability to rally support among constituents. The political dynamics in Kerala are shifting, and Congress leaders are under pressure to address these internal issues before it affects their electoral prospects.
