Is Veteran Congress Leader M.M. Hassan Right to Accuse Shashi Tharoor of Undermining Party Leadership?
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Synopsis
In a recent outburst, veteran Congress leader M.M. Hassan has accused Shashi Tharoor of undermining party leadership. This accusation comes amid growing tensions within the party, highlighting a significant rift that could impact upcoming elections. Hassan's remarks, especially on Nehru’s birth anniversary, bring critical attention to Tharoor's controversial statements and their implications for Congress unity.
Key Takeaways
- M.M. Hassan criticizes Shashi Tharoor for undermining party leadership.
- Hassan's remarks were made on Jawaharlal Nehru's birth anniversary.
- Tharoor's previous statements have caused internal discontent within Congress.
- There is ongoing tension between Tharoor and sections of Keralan Congress leadership.
- Upcoming elections may be impacted by these internal conflicts.
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 14 (NationPress) Veteran Congress figure M.M. Hassan has vehemently criticized senior party member Shashi Tharoor, accusing him of consistently undermining the party leadership. Speaking during the Nehru Award distribution ceremony hosted by the Nehru Centre, Hassan claimed that Tharoor was “oiling his head without looking at what he is doing,” a colloquial Malayalam expression suggesting thoughtlessness.
Hassan remarked that Tharoor’s ascent in politics was facilitated by “the generosity and trust of the Nehru family,” yet he has opted to disparage them while still being part of the Congress Working Committee.
“If he possessed even a modicum of decency, he should have stepped down from the Working Committee before making such remarks,” he stated.
Hassan expressed that he felt compelled to voice his concerns on Jawaharlal Nehru’s birth anniversary.
He criticized Tharoor as someone “who has not exerted even a drop of sweat for the country or society,” accusing him of praising senior BJP leader L.K. Advani while casting Congress leaders in a negative light.
The award was conferred to G. Sudhakaran.
Hassan’s criticisms arise amid previous instances where Tharoor’s statements have caused unrest within the party.
In recent years, numerous public comments from Tharoor—often interpreted as sympathetic to BJP leaders or critical of Congress strategies—have led to internal discontent.
His recognition of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s communication skills, periodic commendation of policy initiatives, and past remarks referring to Modi as “crackling with energy” during a meeting have drawn backlash from certain Congress members.
Moreover, his open admiration for L.K. Advani as a “patriot” has previously raised objections within the party, with some leaders accusing him of legitimizing the BJP’s ideological figures.
Tharoor’s readiness to express dissent on topics ranging from organizational reforms to electoral strategies has also been perceived by many as misaligned with the party’s principles.
Hassan’s latest outburst highlights the ongoing tension between Tharoor and factions of the Kerala Congress leadership, even as the party strives to present a unified front ahead of upcoming electoral challenges.
Point of View
M.M. Hassan's accusations against Shashi Tharoor reflect the internal challenges facing the Congress party. While Hassan's comments resonate with a faction of party loyalists, they also raise questions about the party's ability to maintain unity amid differing viewpoints. This situation warrants attention as Congress prepares for critical electoral battles.
NationPress
14/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did M.M. Hassan accuse Shashi Tharoor of?
M.M. Hassan accused Shashi Tharoor of undermining party leadership and belittling the Nehru family, whose trust facilitated Tharoor's political rise.
What context were Hassan's remarks made in?
Hassan made his remarks during the Nehru Award distribution ceremony on Jawaharlal Nehru's birth anniversary.
How has Tharoor’s comments affected party dynamics?
Tharoor's public statements have often been seen as favorable to BJP leaders or critical of Congress strategy, causing internal dissent.
What reaction has Tharoor's praise for BJP leaders sparked?
Tharoor's praise for BJP leaders like L.K. Advani has drawn criticism from Congress members, accusing him of legitimizing BJP ideological figures.
What is the current state of the Congress party?
The Congress party is attempting to project unity amid ongoing tensions, especially with the upcoming elections on the horizon.
