Shashi Tharoor vs Congress: Operation Sindoor Sparks Political Rift

However, his remarks about India's past surgical strikes — particularly praising the Modi government's boldness — triggered strong backlash from within the Congress. Party leaders Udit Raj, Jairam Ramesh, and Pawan Khera publicly criticized him, with Udit Raj going as far as calling the strikes “fuzzy.” Tharoor hit back sharply, stating, “I have better things to do,” and clarified that his remarks were misrepresented and meant to support the national cause, not the ruling party.

Moderated by journalist Barkha Dutt on Mojo Story, the discussion featured political analyst Rahul Easwar, BJP spokesperson Rajiv Pandey, and suspended Congress leader Sanjay Jha. All agreed that Tharoor’s strategic thinking aligns with nationalism and bipartisanship, making him a valuable asset in India’s foreign policy outreach.

While Tharoor continues to walk a nuanced line, embracing pluralism with a nationalistic tone, Congress seems divided over his stance. Barkha Dutt concludes that the Congress missed an opportunity to support one of its best talents. “Rather than sidelining Tharoor, the party should have used his global appeal to strengthen its position in a time of national unity,” she said.