1. Short Description:
Congress leader Shashi Tharoor quells rumors of internal party discord, affirming unity with Kharge and Gandhi. He positions the party as a viable “alternative government” ahead of crucial elections.
2. Read Time:
3 minutes 15 seconds
3. Main Article:
Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has moved decisively to end speculation of a rift within the party, publicly declaring he is “on the same page” with Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi. The statement follows a detailed, closed-door meeting held to address recent tensions and presents a united front aimed at stabilizing the party’s internal dynamics. This show of solidarity is crucial as the Congress party, currently the principal opposition, seeks to project itself as a cohesive and capable “alternative government,” both nationally and in key states like Kerala.
Tharoor’s comments directly address weeks of speculation fueled by his perceived sidelining at party events and his absence from a key strategy meeting in Kerala. The lengthy conciliatory meeting with the top leadership—lasting over an hour and forty-five minutes—was described as “very good, constructive, and positive.” Tharoor later reinforced this on social media, thanking Kharge and Gandhi for a “warm and constructive discussion.” He categorically denied any ambition for a chief ministerial role in Kerala and firmly dismissed rumors of leaving the party, stating, “I can say that I am going to be in the Congress and that I am not going anywhere.” Instead, he pledged to campaign extensively for the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) across Kerala’s 140 Assembly constituencies.
Emphasizing the party’s readiness to govern, Tharoor argued that unity is paramount for electoral success. “We need to stay together, work together and move forward together, and we’re doing that,” he stated. This messaging is strategically vital as the Congress aims to wrest power in Kerala from the Left Democratic Front after a decade in opposition. The party leadership recognizes that internal harmony is essential not only for state elections but also to counter the BJP’s growing influence and to solidify its national image as a credible political force. Tharoor dismissed reports of discord as “exaggerated,” framing internal discussions as healthy and cordial, necessary for a party positioning itself as a government-in-waiting.
4. Short Summary:
Shashi Tharoor has reaffirmed his unity with the Congress high command, dispelling rumors of internal conflict. Following a conciliatory meeting, he emphasized the party’s collective goal of presenting itself as a credible “alternative government.” His commitment to campaign vigorously in Kerala underscores the Congress’s focus on internal cohesion and electoral readiness ahead of crucial state polls.
