Tharoor Faces Growing Resistance Within Congress Amid Leadership Discontent: 'Where Ignorance Is Bliss...'

Even as Shashi Tharoor continues to captivate the internet with his intricate English vocabulary, his position within the Congress party remains fraught with challenges.

While Rahul Gandhi has declined to acknowledge his grievances or suggestions, recent reports indicate that opposition to Tharoor has intensified among party leaders in Kerala.

Photo Credit: PTI

A report in The Times of India cited sources suggesting that the All India Congress Committee (AICC) is no longer inclined to adopt a lenient stance towards Tharoor.

According to the report, Tharoor had sought clarity from Rahul regarding his role within the party.

During their recent discussion in Delhi, Tharoor reportedly conveyed his deep dissatisfaction over being sidelined. However, it is understood that he was left displeased with the conversation as Rahul Gandhi was unwilling to make any firm commitments.

The report further stated that the Congress was unhappy with Tharoor for diverging from the party's official stance on issues such as the Prime Minister's visit to the United States and his meeting with former US President Donald Trump.

It is understood that Tharoor is unwilling to adhere to the party line, believing that he is not receiving the recognition he deserves. During his meeting with Rahul, Tharoor reportedly voiced his frustration over being removed from his position as head of the All India Professionals Congress, an organisation he had founded, TOI mentioned.

Amid speculation of being sidelined, Tharoor posted a cryptic message on X.

Meanwhile, a report in The New Indian Express suggested that a majority of senior Congress leaders are displeased with the national leadership's favour towards Tharoor. They argue that the four-time MP has already been afforded sufficient leeway.

"Tharoor hasn't corrected his position even after Rahul Gandhi spoke to him," a senior Congress leader was quoted as saying by TNIE.

Tharoor's recent article, in which he commended the industrial growth under the LDF government, has reportedly caused discontent within the Kerala Congress.

There is also criticism regarding Tharoor's limited engagement in party discussions.

"He is a member of the political affairs committee. But he is playing the role of a guest artist. There are criticisms from ordinary workers about his MP office. He is unavailable to ordinary people," another senior leader was quoted as saying.

With the exception of state Congress president K Sudhakaran, most factions within the party are reportedly dissatisfied with Tharoor, TNIE stated.