In a swift move to quell swirling rumors, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor addressed his absence from a crucial party meeting in Delhi, asserting that he had already informed the high command about his commitments. Speaking from Kozhikode on Saturday, Tharoor dismissed any notions of internal discord, emphasizing that all his concerns had been communicated privately to party leaders.
The meeting, convened by the Congress high command on Friday, focused on strategies for the upcoming assembly elections. Tharoor’s no-show sparked immediate speculation in media circles, with some linking it to alleged dissatisfaction from a recent party gathering in Kochi attended by Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi. Reports suggested Tharoor was upset over his treatment there, fueling narratives of factionalism within Kerala Congress.
Tharoor, however, was unequivocal. ‘Whatever I needed to say, I’ve already told the leadership internally. It’s not appropriate to air it publicly,’ he told reporters. He attributed his absence to prior engagements, including the launch of his new book at a literary festival in Kozhikode. ‘I missed the Jaipur Literature Festival last time due to political duties, so I couldn’t skip this one,’ he explained, highlighting his packed schedule that made a quick trip to Delhi unfeasible.
The MP cautioned against blindly trusting every media rumor, refusing to confirm or deny any personal grievances with recent party activities. His stance comes amid heightened scrutiny on Congress unity in Kerala ahead of polls.
Supporting Tharoor, senior leader and Congress Working Committee member Ramesh Chennithala praised his dual role as a politician and literary figure. ‘We must view his priorities through that lens,’ Chennithala said, urging a balanced perspective on the MP’s commitments.
As Kerala Congress gears up for electoral battles, Tharoor’s clarification aims to refocus attention on unity and preparation rather than internal whispers. Whether this puts all speculation to rest remains to be seen, but it underscores the challenges of balancing political and personal pursuits in the public eye.