BJP MP's Mysterious Post Sparks Speculation on Shashi Tharoor's Loyalty Shift

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BJP MP's Mysterious Post Sparks Speculation on Shashi Tharoor's Loyalty Shift

Synopsis

A recent post by BJP MP Baijayant Jay Panda has sparked speculation about Shashi Tharoor's potential shift in allegiance towards the BJP, following Tharoor's supportive remarks about PM Modi's diplomatic approach. This comes amidst an ongoing discourse about Tharoor's position within Congress and his attendance at the Kalinga Lit Fest.

Key Takeaways

  • Baijayant Jay Panda's post raises eyebrows about Shashi Tharoor's loyalty.
  • Tharoor clarifies his trip to Bhubaneswar is for the Kalinga Lit Fest.
  • Speculations grow due to Tharoor's recent praise for PM Modi.
  • Tharoor acknowledges his misjudgment on India's foreign policy.
  • Discontent within Congress adds to rumors of Tharoor's shift.

Bhubaneswar, March 22 (NationPress) Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) figure and Kendrapara MP Baijayant Jay Panda’s enigmatic post on his X handle on Friday has intensified the discussions surrounding veteran Congress politician Shashi Tharoor's growing alignment with the ruling BJP.

Posting a photo of himself alongside Tharoor during a flight to Bhubaneswar, the BJP MP remarked: “My friend & fellow traveler playfully labeled me mischievous for suggesting that we appear to be finally journeying in the same direction.”

In response, the Thiruvananthapuram MP swiftly clarified that he was traveling to Bhubaneswar to participate in the Kalinga Lit Fest on Saturday.

“Fellow traveler only to Bhubaneswar! I will be speaking at the Kalinga LitFest tomorrow morning. And then I’m returning right away!!” joked Tharoor.

However, Panda’s mysterious message has left social media users pondering the potential shift in allegiance of the experienced Congress leader.

The Congress MP’s recent comments commending Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s diplomatic approach on various international matters and the existing discord within the party have ignited conversations about his possible inclination towards the BJP.

At the recent Raisina Dialogue, Tharoor conceded that he had misinterpreted India's stance on the conflict, recognizing Prime Minister Modi's neutral position on the Russia-Ukraine situation.

"I am still wiping the egg off my face because I was one of those who criticized India's stance back in February 2022. Three years later, it turns out I was wrong. India now has a Prime Minister who can embrace both the President of Ukraine and the President of Russia within two weeks and still be welcomed in both places. This indicates India is positioned to contribute to lasting peace," he stated.

The Thiruvananthapuram MP had previously put the Congress party in a difficult position when he remarked that the results of PM Modi's US visit were "very positive".

The diplomat-turned-politician’s disagreements with the Congress leadership and the state unit in Kerala have also fueled speculation about his potential move to the BJP.

According to Tharoor’s response to Panda’s post on X, the veteran Congress politician was en route to Bhubaneswar for the 11th installment of the renowned Kalinga Literary Festival, which commenced here on Friday.

Creative minds from across South East Asia and globally, representing approximately 25 languages, are taking part in this annual celebration of art, culture, and literature.