Congress Distances Itself from Mani Shankar Aiyar After Controversial Statement on Kerala Politics

By Pankaj Singh | February 16, 2026

Senior Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar has once again sparked political controversy with remarks that appeared to support Pinarayi Vijayan remaining Chief Minister of Kerala. The comments come at a sensitive time, as Congress is striving to regain power in the southern state ahead of the upcoming assembly elections.

Shortly after Aiyar’s statement, Congress moved swiftly to distance itself. The party clarified that Aiyar has not had any formal association with the Congress for several years and speaks entirely in his personal capacity. Pawan Khera, head of Congress’ Media and Publicity Department, emphasized that Aiyar’s views are his own and do not represent the party. Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh, while tagging Khera’s post on X, reaffirmed the party’s commitment to Kerala, asserting that the United Democratic Front (UDF) will be returned to power by the electorate in pursuit of accountable governance.

Aiyar’s Controversial Remarks

At an international symposium titled Vision 2031: Development and Democracy, Aiyar expressed confidence that the Marxist leader Pinarayi Vijayan would remain Chief Minister. He suggested legal amendments to safeguard Kerala’s top position in Panchayati Raj governance and praised the state for implementing reforms more effectively than others.

Aiyar’s comments stirred debate, as he noted, “It may appear ironic, but Kerala has made the most commendable progress toward this goal under the rule of a Marxist-Leninist party, which I believe is Pinarayi Vijayan’s administration.” He also lamented the absence of his party colleagues at the event, describing it as a national opportunity.

Past Controversies

This is not the first time Aiyar’s statements have caused political uproar:

• In 2014, he referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a “chaiwala,” a remark seized upon by the BJP to damage Congress.
• He previously stated that peace between India and Pakistan would be possible only if the Modi government fell.
• He used derogatory language to describe the Prime Minister personally.
• He questioned historical and cultural narratives, including aspects of the Ramayana.
• Aiyar advised India to respect Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities to avoid conflict.
• Last year, he questioned former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi’s educational qualifications and expressed surprise at his rise to office.

Through these repeated controversies, Congress has consistently clarified that Aiyar acts independently and his opinions do not reflect the party’s official stance.