Shashi Tharoor to Lead All-Party Delegation on Terrorism
New Delhi: In an unexpected turn of events, senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has been appointed to lead a significant all-party delegation abroad, despite not making his party’s shortlist of nominees for the role. This appointment comes as part of an effort to articulate India’s position on the pressing issue of terrorism linked to Pakistan.
Request from the Government
On the morning of May 16, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju reached out to the Congress party, requesting them to propose four names for the delegation. By midday, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, presented a list that notably excluded Mr. Tharoor. The names recommended included Anand Sharma, Gaurav Gogoi, Dr. Syed Naseer Hussain, and Raja Brar.
Formation of the Delegation
Subsequently, the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs announced that Shashi Tharoor, a four-time MP representing Thiruvananthapuram, would head the all-party delegation. This delegation includes prominent members from various parties, including BJP’s Ravi Shankar Prasad and Baijayant Panda, Janata Dal (United) member Sanjay Kumar Jha, DMK’s Kanimozhi Karunanidhi, NCP’s Supriya Sule, and Shiv Sena’s Shrikant Shinde.
Diplomatic Mission Details
The seven-member delegation is scheduled to embark on a 10-day diplomatic journey starting May 23, visiting major capitals like Washington, London, Abu Dhabi, Pretoria, and Tokyo. The mission aims to present India’s “zero tolerance” policy on terrorism and discuss recent developments related to Operation Sindoor, launched in response to a notable terror attack on April 22 that claimed 26 lives.
Tharoor’s Response to the Appointment
Upon receiving the invitation, Mr. Tharoor expressed his gratitude, stating he felt “honoured” to lead the delegation. He committed to being readily available when national interests are at stake, reinforcing his dedication to serving the country. “When national interest is involved, I will not be found wanting,” he asserted in his statement.
Political Context and Internal Dynamics
Tharoor’s selection as the head of the delegation occurs at a politically sensitive moment for Congress. His recent comments commending the government’s military approach have sparked mixed reactions, gaining praise from some ruling party members but displeasing others within his own ranks. Tharoor has described the government’s actions as measured and targeted, contradicting the party’s usual critical stance towards Prime Minister Modi’s administration.
Challenges Within Congress
The tension between Tharoor and the Congress high command has been evident over the years. His previous favor towards Modi in 2014 led to his removal as a party spokesperson, and his involvement in the G-23 movement highlighted calls for internal reforms. Even though he contested the Congress presidential election in 2022, his ongoing divergence from the party line raises questions about his future within the organization. Observers note that senior party leaders believe Tharoor risks crossing political boundaries with his stance.
