Internal Discord in Congress Party: Udit Raj Criticizes Shashi Tharoor, Calls Him “BJP’s Super Spokesperson”

The Congress Party appears to be grappling with internal dissent, as tensions have surfaced publicly following a sharp attack by senior Congress leader Udit Raj on fellow party MP Shashi Tharoor. In a scathing comment, Raj referred to Tharoor as the “super spokesperson of the BJP,” sparking fresh controversy within the party.

The Spark: Tharoor’s Comments in Panama

The controversy stems from a recent speech delivered by Shashi Tharoor in Panama, where he was part of a multi-party delegation visiting several countries to present India’s stance on terrorism and regional security. During his address, Tharoor highlighted India’s firm response to cross-border terrorism, referencing the 2016 surgical strike and the 2019 Balakot airstrike.

Tharoor stated that these military actions signaled a shift in India’s strategic approach, showing that the country was prepared to cross both the Line of Control (LoC) and the international border to target terrorist bases in Pakistan. He emphasized this as a new normal in India’s security doctrine.

Udit Raj Hits Back: “An Insult to Congress Legacy”

Tharoor’s remarks did not sit well with Udit Raj, who accused him of undermining the Congress Party’s contributions to national security. Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Raj questioned Tharoor’s narrative that suggested cross-border military action was unprecedented before Prime Minister Narendra Modi came to power.

“How can you belittle the Congress’s historic achievements by claiming India never crossed the LoC or the international border before Modi?” Raj wrote, citing the 1965 and 1971 wars, as well as alleged surgical strikes conducted during the UPA government.

Sarcastic Swipe: “Modi Should Make You Foreign Minister”

In a particularly pointed comment, Raj added, “Dear Shashi Tharoor, I wish I could persuade Prime Minister Modi to appoint you as the BJP’s super spokesperson or even make you the Foreign Minister before your return to India. How can you be so disloyal to the party that gave you everything?”

Party Tensions Out in the Open

Tharoor, currently leading the international delegation representing India’s stance on Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, has visited countries including the United States, Guyana, and Panama. Though he is a sitting Congress MP from Thiruvananthapuram, the delegation he’s leading was appointed by the central government, reportedly without Congress Party’s formal approval.

His remarks and the party’s visible discomfort with his role reflect deeper divisions within Congress. The situation raises questions about internal coordination, leadership unity, and growing ideological rifts in the party ranks.

Conclusion

This episode underscores ongoing friction within the Congress Party, where public disagreements among senior leaders risk overshadowing broader political goals. As the party seeks to position itself as a viable alternative to the BJP ahead of key elections, resolving internal conflicts will be crucial. For now, the clash between Udit Raj and Shashi Tharoor highlights the challenges Congress faces in maintaining cohesion amid shifting political narratives.

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