Politics: In the politics of Kerala, Congress MP Dr. Shashi Tharoor is at the center of discussion these days. The question has started echoing in the political corridors about Tharoor, who is leading the all -party delegation after ‘Operation Sindoor’, whether their trend is moving towards the Bharatiya Janata Party?
According to political analysts, Tharoor’s recent activities and statements are making his party uncomfortable. In February, when he expressed his desire to cooperate in the Kerala government’s investment projects, the Congress leadership took this attitude against the party line. Recently, Tharoor also described himself as available for the leadership of the BJP-provided delegation associated with Operation Sindoor, which he did not inform the Congress leadership before.
Possibility of joining BJP?
Political analysts are divided into two streams. A class believes that Tharoor’s going to BJP is ideologically impossible. Senior analyst says Tharoor is a soft Hindu, but he has taken a vocal stand against the BJP’s majority ideology. He is the author of a book like ‘I am a Hindu’, but never supported Hindutva. Going to BJP does not match his views.
However, some experts are of the opinion that Tharoor is trying to help Hindu voters and wants to give a clear message to his party that they will not accept the side of the Congress. This class believes that Tharoor is exploring the possibilities of the post of Chief Minister and under this strategy, they are increasing the closeness of the BJP.
Uncomfort in Congress
Many senior Congress leaders have openly expressed their displeasure over Tharoor’s activities. Former Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman P.J. Kurien said, if someone believes that Tharoor is showing tilt towards BJP, then there is no doubt. His stance is no longer neutral.
At the same time, Kerala Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal also objected to Tharoor’s remarks in which he described the humanitarian aid to Türkiye in 2023 as “unfair generosity”. Balgopal said, this assistance was given through the Ministry of External Affairs and at that time it was an essential human step. CPM MP John Britas and analyst MG Radhakrishnan also described Tharoor’s Turkish statement as political purpose and advised him to remember the ‘Operation Friends’ policy of the Center.
‘Ideology vs. Practicality’
Political experts believe that Tharoor’s stance is more practicality than ideology. A senior analyst said that Tharoor has been an outspoken critic of the BJP, but the equations in politics change quickly. Leaders like George Fernandes also went with the BJP. It is difficult for a leader like Tharoor to join BJP, but not impossible. According to some experts, Tharoor’s victory in Thiruvananthapuram seat in the last Lok Sabha election had decreased, which may worry about strengthening his political ground.
Whether Shashi Tharoor will join BJP or not, it will tell whether his statements and attitude have created a stir in Kerala politics. There has been an increase in dissatisfaction within the Congress, while the BJP’s curiosity in the camp. Now everyone’s eyes are on the next step of Tharoor.
