Shashi Tharoor Applauds PM Modi’s Leadership: A Shift in Congress’s Stance?
In a surprising turn of events, senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has publicly praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s policies, calling them “effective and transformative.” This unexpected endorsement has triggered discussions within political circles, with many wondering if this marks a new normal for the Congress party.
Tharoor, known for his articulate and often critical stance against the BJP, recently acknowledged Modi’s diplomatic strategies and economic reforms, raising eyebrows among his party members. His comments come at a time when the Congress is striving to redefine its opposition strategy ahead of the 2024 general elections.
Shashi Tharoor’s Praise for PM Modi’s Policies
During a recent interview, Shashi Tharoor commended PM Modi’s foreign policy initiatives, particularly his handling of India’s G20 presidency. He also appreciated the government’s digital push, including the success of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and the Aadhaar-linked welfare schemes.
“There are certain policies where the government has done well, and it would be unfair not to acknowledge them,” Tharoor stated. “Modi’s ability to position India as a global leader is noteworthy.”
While Tharoor clarified that his praise was issue-based and not an endorsement of the BJP, his remarks have fueled speculation about internal rifts within the Congress. Some party leaders view this as a pragmatic approach, while hardliners see it as undermining the party’s anti-BJP stance.
Shashi Tharoor’s Support for Operation Sindoor
Following the tragic Pahalgam attack on April 22, 2025, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians, the Indian government launched ‘Operation Sindoor’ as a retaliatory measure against terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Shashi Tharoor lauded the operation, describing it as a “measured yet firm” response that upheld India’s sovereignty without escalating into full-scale conflict
Tharoor also praised the symbolic naming of the mission, stating that ‘Operation Sindoor’ conveyed a powerful message, resonating deeply with Indian cultural sentiments.
A Pattern of Acknowledgment
This isn’t the first time Shashi Tharoor has acknowledged Prime Minister Modi’s initiatives. In the past, he has praised Modi’s outreach to the Islamic world and efforts in popularizing yoga globally. Tharoor has consistently maintained that good governance should be recognized, regardless of political affiliations.
Source: (India Today)
Congress Reacts: Divided Opinions Within the Party
Shashi Tharoor’s comments have not gone unnoticed within the Congress. While younger leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra have maintained a firm opposition to Modi’s policies, other veterans suggest that acknowledging the government’s successes could help the party appear more balanced.
A senior Congress leader, on condition of anonymity, said, “Politics is not just about opposing everything. If the government does something right, we should admit it. But the challenge is doing so without diluting our critique.”
However, traditionalists argue that praising Modi could confuse the party’s voter base, especially when the Congress is trying to position itself as the principal opposition.
Pahalgam Attack and Operation Sindoor: A Contrast in Security Policies
While Tharoor praised Modi’s diplomatic efforts, he also emphasized the need for stronger counter-terrorism measures, referencing the recent Pahalgam attack where security forces foiled a major infiltration bid. Critics argue that despite such successes, Jammu and Kashmir still faces security challenges.
The mention of Operation Sindoor, a covert military operation against insurgents, also brought attention to the Modi government’s hardline approach on national security. Tharoor acknowledged the operation’s success but cautioned against excessive militarisation in civilian areas.
Will Tharoor’s Pragmatism Influence Congress’s Strategy?
Political analysts suggest that Shashi Tharoor’s nuanced stance could signal a shift in Congress’s approach—moving from outright opposition to a more constructive critique. In an era where Modi’s popularity remains high, the Congress may need to adopt a more balanced narrative to regain public trust.
However, the big question remains: Will the Congress high command embrace this change, or will it stick to its traditional anti-BJP rhetoric? With the 2024 elections looming, the party’s strategy could determine its political revival—or further decline.
Conclusion: A New Normal or a One-Off Remark?
Shashi Tharoor’s praise for PM Modi’s policies has certainly stirred the political pot. Whether this becomes a new normal for the Congress or remains an isolated incident depends on how the party reconciles its internal divisions.