Congress MP clarifies remarks, says he speaks for national interest, not BJP
New Delhi:
Senior Congress leader and Member of Parliament Shashi Tharoor has said that his views on international and foreign policy issues should not be politicised, amid criticism and speculation over his recent remarks being perceived as favourable to the BJP.
Tharoor’s comments came after controversy erupted over his observations on diplomatic engagement following the Pahalgam attack, which were interpreted by some political observers and social media users as aligning with the BJP’s position on foreign affairs.
Clarifying his stand, Thbaroor said that on certain critical issues, he prefers to speak for the country rather than through a partisan political lens.
“On some matters, especially those related to foreign policy and national interest, I prefer to speak for India,”
Tharoor told the media.
‘Misinterpreted as Pro-BJP’
Addressing the criticism, Tharoor said that his views were being misunderstood and misrepresented as pro-BJP, which he strongly rejected.
“This is not about supporting the BJP. These are views based on India’s long-term national interest,”
he said.
He added that foreign policy and diplomacy require continuity, maturity, and bipartisan responsibility, regardless of which party is in power.
Reaffirms Loyalty to Congress
Amid speculation about his political future, Tharoor made it clear that he remains firmly with the Congress party.
“I am still in the Congress. I am not going anywhere,”
he said.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to party activities, particularly in Kerala.
“I will actively participate in the election campaign in Kerala and work for the victory of the UDF,”
Tharoor stated.
Party Sources Respond
Congress sources said Tharoor’s clarification should put an end to speculation and reiterated that diverse opinions within the party are natural, especially on complex global issues. However, they stressed the importance of maintaining unity during the election period.
Background
The controversy followed Tharoor’s comments after the Pahalgam attack, where he spoke about diplomatic restraint, international perception, and strategic communication. The remarks triggered political debate, with opposition parties and commentators questioning his alignment.
