Do BJP and JD-U Support Shashi Tharoor's Foreign Policy Comments Amid Congress's Discontent?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Shashi Tharoor's remarks raise debates on national unity.
- BJP and JD-U support emphasize the importance of a united front.
- Congress's internal conflicts are highlighted through criticism of Tharoor.
- Political leaders should prioritize India's global standing over party politics.
- Historical bipartisan unity in foreign policy is crucial.
New Delhi, Dec 27 (NationPress) Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has again stirred the political waters with his remarks regarding India's foreign policy, emphasizing that the downfall of a Prime Minister signifies a setback for the nation itself.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Janata Dal-United (JD-U) have expressed their support for Tharoor's comments, underlining the importance of national solidarity in international matters, while simultaneously criticizing the Opposition for its criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on global platforms.
In an interview with a prominent media outlet, Tharoor stated that foreign policy is not the domain of the BJP or the Congress, but of India as a whole.
"If any political figure celebrates the defeat of a Prime Minister, they are in fact celebrating the defeat of India," Tharoor remarked. He quoted Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, saying, "If India dies, who will survive?"
Maharashtra BJP MLA Ram Kadam reacted to Tharoor's comments, labeling them as both candid and truthful.
"Tharoor's assertion is a direct acknowledgment that the Prime Minister serves all citizens, not just one party. Regrettably, some leaders, notably Rahul Gandhi, seem to miss this point by making disparaging remarks that undermine the dignity of our nation," Kadam told IANS.
He further advised Rahul Gandhi to heed Tharoor's insights.
JD-U spokesperson Neeraj Kumar stated that India has historically maintained a bipartisan approach towards foreign policy and national security.
"India has always upheld unity concerning foreign affairs and security matters, steering clear of public conflicts between the government and the Opposition. However, domestic issues are now being debated on international stages," Kumar noted.
Maharashtra BJP MLA Sanjay Upadhyay also voiced his support for Tharoor, asserting, "Members of the INDI Alliance, particularly from Congress, frequently insult the Prime Minister and wish for his defeat. I stand with Tharoor in this regard. While politics may be local, on the global stage, we are united as Indians, and we must uphold India's honor. Tharoor has exemplified this sentiment."
In the meantime, the Congress leadership has launched a fierce critique of Tharoor, accusing him of silence when the BJP disparages former Prime Minister Nehru and levies allegations against the party, urging the Thiruvananthapuram MP not to become a "servant" to Modi.
Former Congress Rajya Sabha member V. Hanumantha Rao stated that Tharoor should also advocate for former Prime Ministers.
"Tharoor should address the treatment of former Prime Ministers who sacrificed for the nation and are now ridiculed. Why does he not speak out against that? These individuals were also Prime Ministers," Rao remarked.
Congress' Odisha unit President Bhakta Charan Das criticized Tharoor, despite recognizing his intellect.
In comments to IANS, Das stated: "Tharoor is mistaken and appears to be acting as a sycophant. I address Tharoor out of respect for his intellect. His political ambitions were evident when he contested against our Congress President, Mallikarjuna Kharge."
"His recent statement reflects his opinion, but has he truly grasped the issues facing the country? I urge Tharoor to refrain from making statements against the Congress and not to become a follower of PM Modi," Das added.