Controversy Brews Over Tharoor's Participation in Anti-Terror Delegation Abroad
Thiruvananthapuram, March 18 — CPI Kerala Secretary Binoy Viswom on Sunday launched a sharp attack on Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, accusing him of attempting to align with what he termed as "sleeping cells" within the Congress party.In a post on social media platform X, Viswom referenced Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s recent concerns about the infiltration of BJP loyalists into the grand old party. He claimed Tharoor was seeking a place among such suspected elements.
"@RahulGandhi’s concern about BJP sleeping cells inside Congress is not so simple. It seems that @ShashiTharoor is in search of his berth in that cell. @BJP4India knows how to make use of such elements. For them, even the fight against terrorism is a hunt for party gains!" Viswom wrote.
Tharoor’s Acceptance of Centre's Invite Sparks Row
The comments from Viswom followed Tharoor’s acceptance of the Centre’s invitation to lead a multi-party delegation abroad, representing India’s stance against Pakistan on terrorism. His participation has sparked controversy, especially since his name was not among those officially submitted by the Congress party in response to the government's request.The Congress had nominated Anand Sharma, Gaurav Gogoi, Syed Naseer Hussain, and Raja Brar as its representatives. Despite this, Tharoor received a direct invitation from Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, citing Tharoor’s prior experience in foreign affairs.
Tharoor Responds: "I See No Politics in It"
Defending his decision, Tharoor said he viewed the matter as one of national interest rather than political strategy. Speaking to reporters, he stated, “I see no politics in it. According to me, politics become important when we have a nation. We all are Indians. When the nation is in crisis and the central government seeks the help of a citizen, what other answer would you give?”He further explained that his agreement to lead the delegation was immediate, based on his background and sense of national duty.
The development has intensified the debate within political circles, with the CPI and some Congress members expressing concerns about internal cohesion and alignment in times of national and diplomatic sensitivity.
