Tharoor Gets Invite To President’s Dinner For Putin, But Rahul Gandhi And Kharge Excluded

Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has been invited to the President's state banquet for Russian President Vladimir Putin, while Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi were not included on the guest list. Tharoor's presence at the event is seen as a reflection of his long-standing diplomatic career, including his service as a former United Nations under-secretary-general and his significant role in shaping India's foreign policy, particularly regarding Russia.

Invitation sparks political reactions

Congress sources confirmed that neither Kharge nor Rahul Gandhi received invitations to the dinner hosted at Rashtrapati Bhavan by President Droupadi Murmu during Putin's two-day India visit. Their exclusion has drawn criticism within the party, which views it as a slight during a crucial diplomatic occasion.

In contrast, Shashi Tharoor - who chairs the parliamentary standing committee on External Affairs - did receive an invitation and has confirmed his attendance. Tharoor said he was honoured to be invited but did not know the criteria used for selecting guests. His inclusion is widely attributed to his diplomatic background and his continued engagement with India's external affairs.

Tharoor's diplomatic profile

Tharoor's extensive career in global diplomacy, including his tenure as a UN under-secretary-general, aligns with the decision to include him in the banquet. He has been a key voice in India's foreign policy debate, especially on issues concerning Russia.

Recently, Tharoor led a multi-party delegation to several international capitals to present India's position against Pakistan-sponsored terrorism in the aftermath of 'Operation Sindoor'. He also emerged as a prominent spokesperson articulating India's stance after the Pahalgam attack.

Political context and public positioning

Despite being a leader from the Opposition benches, Tharoor has occasionally praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Earlier this year, he acknowledged Modi's energy and global engagement as strengths for India. He also commended the diplomatic coordination that followed 'Operation Sindoor', calling it an example of national unity and effective outreach.

Tharoor's commentary gained further attention when the Prime Minister's Office amplified his article on social media, highlighting the lessons learned from India's international diplomatic efforts after the operation.

The absence of Kharge and Rahul Gandhi from the banquet - contrasted with Tharoor's presence - highlights the delicate intersection of protocol, political messaging, and diplomatic representation during a high-profile visit. The episode underscores the heightened sensitivities surrounding political roles and foreign policy optics in the current landscape.