Will Tharoor Be Excluded from Congress Events in Kerala?

Thiruvananthapuram, July 21 (NationPress) In the midst of escalating tensions within the Congress party, veteran leader and former Union Minister K. Muraleedharan announced on Sunday that Shashi Tharoor would be excluded from any party events in Thiruvananthapuram unless he changes his viewpoint on critical national security matters.

His comments have further highlighted the growing divide between Tharoor and the party leadership in Kerala.

While addressing reporters, Muraleedharan stated, “Until he (Tharoor) revises his position, we will not extend an invitation to him for any party function in Thiruvananthapuram. He is not aligned with us, so there is no point in him choosing to boycott an event.”

The Congress Working Committee (CWC) member was described by Muraleedharan as “no longer part of our group.”

This senior leader’s remarks come at a pivotal moment, as the Congress and the INDIA coalition gear up to challenge the Modi government in the forthcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament.

They are anticipated to emphasize what they term a “security lapse” related to the Pahalgam terror attacks and scrutinize the results of the government’s notable Operation Sindoor.

Tharoor, who previously led an all-party delegation to the Americas as part of Operation Sindoor, had remarked at a public gathering in Kochi that national interests must take precedence over party politics.

“We must prioritize our country. Political parties exist to enhance our nation,” he asserted.

Tharoor’s position, which includes affirmations of support for the armed forces and the central government on national security, has faced intense criticism from within his own party.

“Numerous individuals have criticized me for prioritizing the nation. Nonetheless, I will remain steadfast as I believe this is the right course for our country,” Tharoor defended his viewpoint.

However, his statements have not been well-received by senior Congress figures, including Muraleedharan, who recently reproached Tharoor for disseminating a poll that depicted him as the most favored Chief Ministerial candidate for the UDF.

“He should first clarify which party he belongs to,” Muraleedharan responded. Adding fuel to the fire, Tharoor’s recent article criticizing the late Indira Gandhi’s management of the Emergency in a Malayalam publication also ignited backlash within party circles.

Demanding clarity, Muraleedharan stated, “If he feels restricted within the Congress, he should select a definitive political course.”

This rivalry has escalated into a significant internal crisis, raising concerns about Tharoor’s future within the party and further complicating Congress’s unity efforts in Kerala as the 2026 Assembly elections approach.