THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The All India Congress Committee (AICC) appears unwilling to take a conciliatory approach toward Congress MP Shashi Tharoor. Despite a recent discussion with a discontented Tharoor, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi refrained from addressing his concerns or offering any assurances, signaling the party’s firm stance.
Tharoor reportedly sought clarity on his role within the party, expressing frustration over being sidelined. During their meeting in Delhi, he conveyed his dissatisfaction, but Rahul remained non-committal. Sources suggest that AICC is growing increasingly wary of Tharoor’s independent political stance, particularly his deviations from the party line on key issues, including the Prime Minister’s US visit and his meeting with former President Donald Trump.
Adding to the friction, Tharoor’s recent praise of Kerala’s LDF-led government for its industrial growth has stirred unease within the state Congress leadership. He has also voiced discontent over his removal from the leadership of the All India Professionals Congress, an organization he helped establish, and his limited participation in major parliamentary debates.
During the meeting, Tharoor reportedly sought clarity on whether the party wanted him to shift his focus to state politics. However, Rahul declined to provide a definitive answer, reiterating that Congress does not announce chief ministerial candidates before elections.
Tharoor left the discussion disappointed, as no concrete assurances were given regarding his role in the party. He had also hinted at taking up responsibilities within Congress’ youth wing, but Rahul was unwilling to entertain the idea.
