Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on January 30, 2026, hailed party leader Rahul Gandhi as a “sincere” figure and a “strong voice” against communalism, hatred, and divisiveness in India.
Speaking to reporters in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Tharoor emphasized that “everyone likes Rahul” for his consistent opposition to the politics of communalism.
“I do not have a different opinion on that,” Tharoor stated, adding that he has never endorsed any unfair criticism of Gandhi and views him as a sincere leader.
His remarks came a day after a crucial meeting with Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi in Delhi, where he addressed grievances related to his recent treatment at a Kochi event and perceived attempts to sideline him in Kerala.
Tharoor also clarified his past positions on certain issues, noting that while the media may have portrayed them as pro-BJP, he sees them as pro-government or pro-India. On international matters, he prefers focusing on the nation rather than partisan politics—a stance he said is longstanding.
Addressing speculation about internal rifts, Tharoor admitted that party members should align with the party line and affirmed he has always supported Congress in Parliament.
When pressed on his future, he categorically declared, “I am going to be in the Congress and I am not going anywhere.” He pledged to actively participate in the upcoming Kerala Assembly election campaign, working for the victory of the United Democratic Front (UDF).
The comments signal reconciliation within the party ahead of the crucial Kerala polls, where Congress aims to end a decade in opposition and defeat the Left government.
Tharoor’s endorsement of Gandhi and commitment to the party underscore unity efforts as the state elections approach. — With Agencies Inputs
Speaking to reporters in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Tharoor emphasized that “everyone likes Rahul” for his consistent opposition to the politics of communalism.
“I do not have a different opinion on that,” Tharoor stated, adding that he has never endorsed any unfair criticism of Gandhi and views him as a sincere leader.
His remarks came a day after a crucial meeting with Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi in Delhi, where he addressed grievances related to his recent treatment at a Kochi event and perceived attempts to sideline him in Kerala.
Tharoor also clarified his past positions on certain issues, noting that while the media may have portrayed them as pro-BJP, he sees them as pro-government or pro-India. On international matters, he prefers focusing on the nation rather than partisan politics—a stance he said is longstanding.
Addressing speculation about internal rifts, Tharoor admitted that party members should align with the party line and affirmed he has always supported Congress in Parliament.
When pressed on his future, he categorically declared, “I am going to be in the Congress and I am not going anywhere.” He pledged to actively participate in the upcoming Kerala Assembly election campaign, working for the victory of the United Democratic Front (UDF).
The comments signal reconciliation within the party ahead of the crucial Kerala polls, where Congress aims to end a decade in opposition and defeat the Left government.
Tharoor’s endorsement of Gandhi and commitment to the party underscore unity efforts as the state elections approach. — With Agencies Inputs