‘Why Are You In Congress?’ Sandeep Dikshit Slams Shashi Tharoor For Praising PM Modi

Shashi Tharoor's commendation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's lecture has led to internal strife within Congress. Critics question his loyalty, while BJP defends his stance, highlighting divisions over Modi's leadership.

Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor's recent praise of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not gone well with the Congress and the latest person to criticise is Sandeep Dikshit.

Sandeep Dikshit has questioned Tharoor's allegiance to the party, suggesting he should follow policies he believes benefit the country, even if they oppose Congress's stance. Dikshit labelled Tharoor a "hypocrite," demanding an explanation if he thinks BJP strategies are superior.

He said, "If, according to you, someone is doing good for the country by going against the Congress's policies, then you should follow those policies... Why are you in Congress? Is it only because you are an MP?"

Tharoor praised Modi's Ramnath Goenka Lecture, describing it as both an economic and cultural call to action, urging the nation to strive for progress.

Tharoor expressed his appreciation for attending the lecture despite being unwell. He mentioned that Modi highlighted India's transition from an 'emerging market' to an 'emerging model,' showcasing its economic resilience. The PM acknowledged accusations of being in 'election mode' but claimed he was in 'emotional mode' to address people's issues.

Congress Leaders Criticise Tharoor

Supriya Shrinate also criticised Tharoor, stating she found nothing praiseworthy in Modi's speech. She remarked, "I didn't see any reason to appreciate him. I don't know how he (Shashi Tharoor) found one...I found it to be a petty speech." Shrinate noted that Modi often criticises Congress.

BJP Responds to Congress Criticism

BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla responded to the criticism by suggesting Congress should be called 'Indira Nazi Congress.' He accused them of exhibiting Indira Gandhi's emergency mindset and dictatorial behaviour. Poonawalla claimed that when someone praises the Prime Minister's speech on significant issues, Congress issues a 'fatwa' against them.

Poonawalla further alleged that Congress prioritises family interests over national interests. He criticised their internal democracy, stating they talk about democracy nationwide but lack it within their party.

A notable portion of Modi's speech focused on dismantling Macaulay's 200-year-old legacy of "slave mentality." Tharoor mentioned that Modi called for a decade-long mission to restore pride in India's heritage, languages, and knowledge systems. However, Tharoor wished Modi had acknowledged Ramnath Goenka's use of English for Indian nationalism.

The ongoing debate highlights internal tensions within Congress regarding differing views on Modi's leadership and policies. While some members appreciate certain aspects of his approach, others remain critical and question such praise from within their ranks.