Shashi Tharoor Faces Backlash for Congratulating BJP in Thiruvananthapuram Corporation Polls

Thiruvananthapuram: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has come under sharp criticism for publicly congratulating the BJP on its victory in the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation, a move seen as diverging from the All India Congress Committee (AICC)’s established stance, even as the party-led United Democratic Front (UDF) recorded notable gains across Kerala in the local self-government elections.

In a detailed social media post, Tharoor described the election outcome as a day of amazing results and lauded the UDF’s performance as a truly impressive win. However, it was his decision to extend humble congratulations to the BJP for what he described as a historic performance in the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation that has raised eyebrows within the Congress. Tharoor’s public praise of the BJP is being seen as a clear departure from the party’s national stance.

Critics argue that by applauding the BJP’s breakthrough in the state capital, Tharoor may be signalling a willingness to align with the BJP in the future, potentially eyeing further political advancement. Party sources note that the Congress has repeatedly warned him against publicly praising Prime Minister Modi or the BJP government, yet Tharoor has continued to adopt a conciliatory tone.

Within the Congress, there is growing unease over the optics and timing of his remarks. Party insiders say that congratulating the BJP sends mixed signals to workers and voters, particularly when the UDF’s overall improvement should have been the primary narrative.

The episode has once again highlighted Tharoor’s tendency to chart an independent public line, raising questions about his political strategy and loyalty to Congress directives.