Shashi Tharoor to leave Congress? Kerala MP complains to Rahul Gandhi about being ignored in the party

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has indicated he may leave the party if his concerns about being sidelined are not addressed by the national leadership. He has demanded a greater role within the party, suggesting he has other options if his services are not utilized, a TOI report stated. “Utilise my services or else I have my own way ahead,” Tharoor stated.

Leadership Vacuum and Popularity Claims

Tharoor has stated that there is a leadership vacuum within the party in Kerala. He also cited survey results to assert that he is the most acceptable leader among Congress figures in the state. His statement has put the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) leadership in a difficult position.

On Saturday, Tharoor posted a quote from Thomas Gray on X: "Where ignorance is bliss, 'Tis folly to be wise," hinting at his stance. He has expressed frustration that despite being a Congress Working Committee (CWC) member, he is not being given significant positions or parliamentary debate opportunities.


Tharoor is reportedly upset over the way, the AICC brass has been dealing with him. He complained to Rahul that he is being denied opportunities for debates inside Parliament.

KPCC Leadership Responds

KPCC president K Sudhakaran, who has previously supported Tharoor, expressed displeasure over his remarks. "Responding through the media was not the right approach for Tharoor. He has time to rectify the mistakes he has made. It was most unfortunate that he has made comments against the interest of the party through the media. One should not cross the boundaries," Sudhakaran said.

He also noted that he had tried to contact Tharoor but was unable to reach him. "I will be speaking to him soon," he added.

Party Leadership Downplays Exit Speculation

Despite Tharoor’s grievances, party leaders believe he is unlikely to leave Congress or join another party. "I don't believe Tharoor will leave the party or join the CPM," said Sudhakaran.

Congress Working Committee member Ramesh Chennithala emphasised Tharoor’s contributions and the recognition he has received. "Congress needs Tharoor and that was the reason why he was made MP four times and a central minister once. He was also given important positions in the party's supreme bodies."

Chennithala also recalled inviting

Tharoor to Congress when he returned from the UN, encouraging him to contest from the Palakkad Lok Sabha constituency. He noted that Tharoor had been included in the KPCC general body meeting despite not being a party member at the time.

Debate Over Role at State and National Level

Senior Congress leader K Muraleedharan countered Tharoor’s claim of a leadership vacuum in Kerala. "His services should be utilized at the national level and especially to woo youngsters to the party. In Kerala, ordinary leaders like us are there to work for the party," he said.

With growing internal disagreements, Tharoor's future role in the Congress remains uncertain, but party leaders continue to emphasize his importance within the organization.