On June 24, 2025, senior Congress leader Shashi थरूर clarified that his article on Operation Sindhur was being misinterpreted.
Shashi Tharoor and PM Modi: Congress leader and MP Shashi थरूर is currently back in the spotlight. The reason is his recent praise of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on a public platform. Following this statement, speculation arose in political circles about whether थरूर was preparing to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). However, थरूर himself has now dispelled these rumors, stating that his comments aimed to demonstrate national unity, not an intention to join any party.
‘This is Not Praise, But a National Resolve’
Specifically, थरूर had praised PM Modi’s role on global platforms after Operation Sindhur in an article published in The Hindu, a leading English newspaper. He wrote that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s energy, communication skills, and impactful presence on international forums were a valuable asset for India. The BJP widely shared this article on social media, sparking discussion in political circles about थरूर deviating from party lines by praising the Prime Minister.
However, when questioned about this at a public event, he clarified that it was not a signal of joining the BJP. It was about standing up for India and prioritizing national interests. “I returned to India after serving the country for 25 years at the United Nations, to serve my nation,” he stated.
Is थरूर Truly Moving Closer to the Modi Government?
Tharoor’s statement has clarified that he can appreciate the Prime Minister’s role on national issues, but it has not changed his political allegiance. He emphatically stated that India’s foreign policy is not tied to any party, but rather the policy of a sovereign nation, which should be supported by all parties. “There is no such thing as a BJP foreign policy or a Congress foreign policy; there is only Indian foreign policy and Indian national interests,” he asserted.
What is ‘Operation Sindhur’ and थरूर’s Role?
‘Operation Sindhur’ was a military operation launched by Indian security forces in response to a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir. Following this incident, the government sent multi-party delegations to the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, and France to clarify India’s position and actions to the world. थरूर led this delegation.
Tharoor explained that the campaign conveyed a message to the world that India stood united against terrorism. “It was not just the government’s campaign; it was a symbol of the unity of the entire political leadership,” he said.
Support for Modi’s International Travels
In his article, थरूर also acknowledged that Prime Minister Modi had strengthened India’s image on the global stage by undertaking numerous international trips. He has traveled more as Prime Minister than previous leaders. The aim was to disseminate India’s message worldwide. However, he also added that these efforts require more support and coordination to make India’s foreign policy even more effective.
Tharoor’s comments could create an uncomfortable situation for the Congress leadership, particularly as the party has often criticized the Modi government’s foreign policy. Party leadership has previously disagreed with थरूर’s “independent thinking” on several occasions. However, this is not the first time थरूर has crossed a political ‘red line.’
Tharoor clarified his perspective on the matter, stating that in a democracy, political differences should be confined to boundaries. “On issues such as national security and foreign policy, all parties should unite to support India.”
