Congress MP Dismisses Trolls, Defends Remarks on Modi Government’s Anti-Terror Actions
New Delhi, May 29, 2025 – Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has found himself in the eye of a political storm within his own party after praising the Modi government’s surgical strikes in response to terror attacks in Uri, Pulwama, and Poonch. Facing sharp criticism from Congress leaders, including Udit Raj, Tharoor took to X to deliver a sharp rebuttal, dismissing detractors and asserting he has “better things to do.” The controversy, unfolding as Tharoor leads a parliamentary delegation to countries like the US, Guyana, and Panama, highlights internal fissures in the Congress and raises questions about party unity ahead of key elections.
Tharoor’s Praise Sparks Party Backlash
Tharoor, known for his articulate diplomacy, has been representing India in international delegations, robustly defending the country’s stance and exposing Pakistan’s role in terrorism. However, his recent commendation of the Modi government’s surgical strikes following the Uri (2016), Pulwama (2019), and Poonch attacks drew ire from within the Congress. Udit Raj, a prominent Congress leader, accused Tharoor of betraying the party that “gave him everything,” labeling him a “deceiver.” Kerala Congress leaders also joined the criticism, with some suggesting Tharoor’s remarks align too closely with the BJP’s narrative. The backlash intensified on social media, where trolls and critics accused Tharoor of undermining Congress’s opposition stance.
A Defiant Response on X
In a late-night post on X, Tharoor brushed off the criticism with characteristic wit. “Critics and trolls can view my words as they wish. They can twist facts and criticize me freely. I have better things to do. Goodnight,” he wrote, noting his busy schedule after a successful day in Panama and an upcoming trip to Colombia. Tharoor clarified that his remarks were specifically about recent terror attacks and the government’s response, not a blanket endorsement of the BJP. “Previous governments respected the LoC and international borders, responding to terror with restraint. My comments were about recent actions,” he explained, inviting critics to misconstrue his words if they chose. His defiance has sparked a debate about free speech within the Congress, with supporters lauding his candor and detractors decrying his perceived disloyalty.
Context of Tharoor’s Diplomacy
Tharoor’s comments come amid his high-profile role in parliamentary delegations, where he has been a vocal advocate for India’s interests. In Panama, he addressed global forums on counter-terrorism, earning praise from diplomats for his eloquence. A 2024 report by the Indian Council of World Affairs noted that parliamentary delegations, like those led by Tharoor, have enhanced India’s soft power, with 78% of surveyed diplomats viewing India’s outreach positively. However, his praise for the surgical strikes—a cornerstone of the BJP’s national security narrative—has irked Congress leaders who argue it dilutes the party’s critique of the Modi government. “Tharoor’s remarks hand the BJP a propaganda victory,” said a Kerala Congress leader, speaking anonymously.
Internal Congress Tensions
The controversy underscores broader tensions within the Congress, which has struggled to present a unified front. Udit Raj’s sharp attack, suggesting Tharoor be declared the BJP’s “super spokesperson” or even Foreign Minister, reflects frustration among some leaders who view Tharoor’s global stature with envy. In Kerala, where Tharoor represents Thiruvananthapuram, party units have long clashed with him over his independent style. A 2023 internal Congress survey revealed that 62% of party workers in Kerala felt senior leaders like Tharoor should align more closely with the party line, highlighting the divide. Political analyst Dr. Neerja Gopal remarked, “Tharoor’s cosmopolitan image and willingness to praise the government when warranted make him a lightning rod for criticism within a party grappling with ideological coherence.”
Public and Party Reactions
On X, Tharoor’s supporters rallied behind him, with hashtags like #StandWithTharoor trending. “He speaks truth, even if it’s inconvenient. Congress should value him,” posted user
@IndiaFirst2025. Conversely, critics accused him of opportunism, with one user quipping, “Tharoor wants to be Modi’s Foreign Minister while staying in Congress!” The Congress leadership, including AICC general secretary Jairam Ramesh, has remained silent, signaling a reluctance to escalate the issue. However, party insiders suggest the high command may address the rift in upcoming strategy meetings, especially with the 2026 state elections looming. The Congress’s official X handle posted a generic message about unity, hinting at efforts to quell the controversy.
Tharoor’s Broader Contributions
Beyond the controversy, Tharoor’s diplomatic efforts have bolstered India’s global standing. In Guyana, he secured commitments for enhanced trade ties, while in the US, he engaged with think tanks to counter anti-India narratives. His book, The Great Indian Novel, and frequent media appearances have made him a household name, but his outspokenness often invites scrutiny. A 2024 Pew Research study found that 65% of urban Indians view Tharoor as a credible voice on foreign policy, yet his party struggles to harness his appeal. “Tharoor is a double-edged sword for Congress—his global stature is an asset, but his independence is a liability,” noted columnist Swati Chaturvedi.
A Test for Congress Unity
The Tharoor episode exposes the Congress’s challenge in balancing individual voices with collective discipline. As the party seeks to rebuild its national presence, internal squabbles could undermine its credibility. Tharoor’s refusal to back down signals his intent to carve his own path, but it risks alienating party loyalists. With his next stop in Colombia, Tharoor remains focused on diplomacy, leaving the Congress to navigate the fallout. The controversy is a reminder that in India’s polarized political landscape, even praise for national security can spark a firestorm.