The Congress party dismissed rift rumors regarding Shashi Tharoor’s praise for the LDF in Kerala during a meeting that emphasized unity. Leaders underscored their commitment to opposing both the LDF and BJP ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections. Tharoor defended his comments about Modi and the LDF, framing them within the context of Kerala’s progress in the startup sector.
In a bid to quell speculation regarding a rift within the party, the Congress party held a meeting in New Delhi, where it asserted that it stands united, especially following Thiruvananthapuram MP Shashi Tharoor’s recent comments praising the CPI(M)-led Left Democratic Front (LDF) in Kerala. The statement was made by Deepa Dasmunshi, Kerala in-charge of Congress, alongside Mr. Tharoor, after a comprehensive discussion with party leaders in preparation for the upcoming Assembly elections next year.
Shashi Tharoor recently faced criticism for his remarks that suggested he has multiple ‘options to spend my time,’ leading some to interpret these as political alternatives outside the Congress party. In response to this misinterpretation, Ms. Dasmunshi clarified that his explanation was straightforward and emphasized unity within the Kerala unit of the party, asserting that there is no member inclined towards supporting the LDF or the BJP, as every member is united in opposing them.
Senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala echoed the sentiments of unity, emphasizing the party’s commitment to the people of Kerala amidst the state government’s failures. He confidently predicted that a Congress-led United Democratic Front would triumph in the 2026 elections. The discussion was attended by key party figures including Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, among others, and spanned nearly three hours.
In a related social media post, Mr. Kharge highlighted the urgency for change in Kerala, asserting that the Congress party has laid the groundwork for development in the state. He declared that the people of Kerala will reject both oppressive and communal elements in the forthcoming elections, voicing determination for the Congress to regain political power.
Earlier controversies surrounding Mr. Tharoor arose when he commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United States and shared favorable observations about the LDF government in his written article. This led to criticism within Congress circles, although he defended his assessments by indicating his commitment to addressing pertinent issues affecting Kerala, particularly in the startup sector initiated by former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy.
In summary, the Congress party’s recent meeting underscored its internal unity ahead of the Kerala Assembly elections. Leaders, including Shashi Tharoor, emphasized the party’s collective stance against both the LDF and the BJP. With calls for change resonating throughout, Congress aims to leverage its development framework to secure electoral success in 2026.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
