Shashi Tharoor Stands Firm on ‘Operation Sindoor’, Denies Party Rift Speculations

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has clarified his stance amid speculation about his differences with the party. The Thiruvananthapuram MP stated that his only public disagreement was regarding Operation Sindoor and India’s counter-terrorism policy. Tharoor emphasized that his focus remains on national interest above political differences.

Speaking at the Kerala Literature Festival, Tharoor explained that he has never violated the party line in Parliament. “The only issue on which I have publicly differed on principle is Operation Sindoor, where I took a strong position, and I do not regret it. I will not apologize for this,” he said.

Tharoor had taken a firm stand on the matter while leading India’s delegation in the United States to present New Delhi’s position on counter-terrorism and Pakistan’s role in terrorism.

Earlier, ahead of the Kerala Assembly elections, Tharoor did not attend a key party meeting with the state leadership and the AICC high command. This led to speculation among party colleagues, including Sandeep Dixit, who remarked that Tharoor may no longer be “essential” for the party. Responding to these reports, Tharoor said it is better to address concerns directly with the party leadership rather than discussing them publicly.

“Many reports in the media may or may not be accurate. Such matters should not be debated on a public platform,” Tharoor added. He also clarified that he had informed the party in advance about his inability to attend the program and asserted that any statements he wishes to make would be addressed internally.

On the Pahalgam attack, Tharoor, as a commentator and writer, had penned an article emphasizing the need for accountability and concrete action. He highlighted that India should remain focused on development and avoid prolonged confrontation with Pakistan, suggesting that any response should be limited to targeting terrorist camps.