Shashi Tharoor in Rebel Mode! Warns Congress Openly, Says 'Have Options...'

Senior Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has stirred controversy within his party by openly critiquing the lack of leadership in Kerala’s Congress unit and emphasizing the need for the party to expand its voter base. Facing criticism for his recent praise of the ruling LDF government’s economic policies, Tharoor defended his stance, stating that his repeated electoral victories in Thiruvananthapuram reflected public approval of his independent views.

Tharoor Flags Congress Leadership Crisis in Kerala, Calls for Expansion

In an interview with The Indian Express on the upcoming Varthamanam podcast by ieMalayalam, Tharoor asserted that the Congress could not afford to rely solely on its committed voter base, both in Kerala and at the national level. Highlighting the party’s repeated Assembly poll defeats despite its 2024 Lok Sabha gains, he warned that without a broader appeal, Congress would remain in opposition for the third consecutive term in Kerala.

"If you look at the national level, the Congress vote share was around 19%. Would we be fine with just our core vote base? Only if we secure an additional 26-27% can we return to power," Tharoor stressed.

Hints at Future Moves Amid Internal Tensions

Amid speculation about his political future, Tharoor stated that he remained available for the party but hinted at alternatives if Congress did not require his services. "I have options," he remarked, further fueling speculation about his next move.

With Assembly elections approaching in Kerala, Tharoor’s statements have intensified the debate over Congress’s strategy and leadership challenges, putting pressure on the party to reassess its approach in the state.