Does the Congress Party Have Space for Competent Leaders? Rohan Gupta Questions Amid Tharoor's Speculation

New Delhi, May 2 (NationPress) Amid rising speculation regarding Congress MP Shashi Tharoor's possible defection after he shared the stage with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the inauguration of the Vizhinjam seaport in Kerala, BJP leader Rohan Gupta has voiced a pointed criticism of the Congress party. He asserted that the party lacks a place for competent, grounded leaders.

Tharoor, who represents Thiruvananthapuram, managed to return to his constituency in time to greet the Prime Minister despite facing delays at what he characterized as a dysfunctional airport in Delhi.

During the inauguration, Prime Minister Modi also took jabs at the Congress and the INDIA bloc, stating that “some will lose sleep today,” seemingly referencing Tharoor's presence.

In response to the swirling rumors, Rohan Gupta remarked, “While I cannot foresee the future, one fact stands out — the Congress has no space for leaders who are grounded and wish to address public concerns. The party has become enslaved to a cadre of courtiers lacking any ideological grounding, prioritizing self-interest over service. This has led to a mass exodus of talented, dedicated individuals.”

Gupta further emphasized that individuals like Tharoor, known for their strong work ethic and connection with the populace, are frequently marginalized.

“In the Congress, good leaders are stifled. Those eager to contribute aren’t supported; instead, they find themselves isolated. I’ve known Shashi Tharoor for many years — he is a commendable leader, and the public does not forsake those who labor for them. There will always be space in politics for those seeking to make a positive impact,” he expressed.

Gupta continued, “If Congress genuinely valued leaders like Tharoor, today would have been a chance to recognize his contributions, but he is overlooked. This only reveals the internal power struggles within the party.”

Shifting to the ongoing dispute over the caste census, Gupta criticized the Congress for attempting to claim credit for a policy it had historically opposed.

“It’s over 77 years since we gained independence, and Congress has held power for much of that time. They have consistently resisted a caste-based census. Now, in Opposition, they wish to take credit for it. The truth is, it was Prime Minister Modi who made the landmark choice to incorporate caste enumeration in the upcoming census. Let the Opposition continue their political games. The Modi administration is committed to ensuring every community receives its rightful acknowledgment,” he stated.

Gupta also addressed the contentious water-sharing conflict between Punjab and Haryana.

“Wherever AAP goes, controversy follows. Look at Delhi — they were granted a tremendous mandate, yet they chose to clash with the Centre on every issue — from pollution to Yamuna water. The public has seen through it. They've been decimated,” he remarked.

Regarding Punjab, Gupta warned of looming repercussions. “This emotional manipulation surrounding water will backfire. The AAP government in Punjab is running out of time. The public is weary of negativity. Effective governance demands constructive dialogue, not theatrics. Coordination between both states is essential to resolve this issue — not political posturing,” he asserted.

He concluded by stating that voters prioritize performance over provocation. “People seek development, not division. A political revival in Punjab is on the horizon — moving away from negativity and towards accountability,” he declared.