Why Did Shashi Tharoor Decline to Join the 'Operation Sindoor' Debate?
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Synopsis
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor's decision to skip the crucial debate on 'Operation Sindoor' raises eyebrows. As the Lok Sabha prepares for a lengthy discussion on India's military response to a terror attack, Tharoor's absence from the speakers' list sparks questions about his role and the party's direction in this heated political climate.
Key Takeaways
- Shashi Tharoor has opted out of the 'Operation Sindoor' debate.
- The Lok Sabha will have a 16-hour discussion on the operation.
- Key Congress leaders are set to participate, including Rahul Gandhi.
- The debate addresses significant national security concerns.
- The Congress has issued a three-day whip for attendance.
New Delhi, July 28 (NationPress) Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, recognized as one of the party’s most eloquent representatives in Parliament, has chosen not to participate in the highly anticipated debate concerning 'Operation Sindoor', which is scheduled for Monday, as per senior party insiders.
The Lok Sabha is gearing up for a lengthy discussion lasting 16 hours regarding 'Operation Sindoor', which represents India’s military action following the terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22.
This operation, which includes cross-border strikes in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, has ignited extensive political, diplomatic, and public discourse.
The fact that Tharoor is not on the speakers’ list has garnered significant attention, especially since he had a vital role in leading a diplomatic outreach mission to the United States shortly after the operation.
Congress insiders have disclosed that Tharoor was invited to partake but decided against it for reasons that remain unspecified.
The speaker lineup for the Congress during this debate features prominent figures such as the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, Deputy LoP Gaurav Gogoi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Deepender Hooda, Parineeti Shinde, Shafi Parambil, Manickam Tagore, and Raja Barad.
On the government's side, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is anticipated to initiate the debate, detailing the strategic goals and results of 'Operation Sindoor'.
He will be accompanied by Home Minister Amit Shah and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who will provide the government’s perspective on the Pahalgam attack and India’s military counter-strategy.
BJP MPs Anurag Thakur and Nishikant Dubey are also expected to address the assembly, supporting the ruling party’s stance and emphasizing national security issues.
In response, Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, along with Akhilesh Yadav, head of the Samajwadi Party, and other opposition members are preparing to contest the government’s narrative, insisting on greater transparency and accountability regarding the operation’s long-term implications.
To emphasize the significance of this momentous debate, the Congress has issued a strict three-day whip to ensure that all its MPs are present.
Since the Monsoon Session commenced on July 21, Parliament has experienced multiple adjournments due to the Opposition’s calls for urgent discussions on critical issues such as the Pahalgam attack and the Election Commission's ongoing SIR exercise in Bihar.
Adding to the political intensity, the Opposition is also pressing for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to respond to statements made by US President Donald Trump, who claimed to have brokered a "ceasefire" between India and Pakistan following 'Operation Sindoor'.
However, both Houses of Parliament were adjourned until noon due to continuous sloganeering and interruptions by Opposition MPs.
Point of View
Shashi Tharoor's absence from the 'Operation Sindoor' debate reflects the complexities within the Congress party. While his decision may be strategic, it highlights the ongoing tensions and the need for clarity on national security issues. The debate promises to shape public discourse, and the Congress must present a united front to effectively challenge the government's narrative.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'Operation Sindoor'?
Operation Sindoor refers to India's military response to the Pahalgam terror attack, involving cross-border strikes in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir.
Why did Shashi Tharoor decline the debate?
Shashi Tharoor declined the invitation to participate in the debate for unspecified reasons, despite being a key figure in the Congress party.
Who are the key speakers in the debate?
Key speakers include Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Rahul Gandhi, and other prominent Congress leaders.
What impact does this debate have on national security?
The debate focuses on India's military strategy and accountability, impacting public perception and political discourse on national security.
What is the Congress party's stance on this issue?
The Congress party aims to challenge the government's narrative and demand greater transparency regarding the operation's implications.
