📍 New Delhi |
In a remark that could stir internal debate within the Congress, senior party MP Shashi Tharoor has praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s global leadership, calling his energy, dynamism, and willingness to engage a “prime asset” for India on the international stage. Tharoor’s comments come at a time when the Congress party has been critical of the Modi government’s foreign policy.
In an article published in The Hindu, Tharoor wrote that the diplomatic efforts following Operation Sindoor were a moment of national unity and effective communication, noting that India’s voice was presented with “clarity and conviction” globally.
🗣️ Key Quotes from Tharoor’s Article
“Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s energy, dynamism and willingness to engage remain a prime asset for India on the global stage, but deserve greater backing.”
“Operation Sindoor was not just a military response—it was a coordinated diplomatic effort that reflected India’s unity and resolve.”
🛡️ Operation Sindoor and Public Diplomacy
Following the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, in which 26 people lost their lives, India launched Operation Sindoor targeting cross-border terrorist infrastructure. Tharoor led one of seven multi-party delegations to five countries — Guyana, Panama, Colombia, Brazil, and the United States — to present India’s position and build diplomatic support.
He emphasised that the diverse composition of the delegations, with MPs from different political parties, religions, and states, sent a strong message of national unity, which enhanced India’s credibility abroad.
🌍 Impact on Global Perception
Tharoor highlighted a diplomatic win in Colombia, where the government retracted an earlier statement on civilian casualties and reaffirmed support for India’s right to self-defence after detailed discussions with the Indian delegation.
In Washington, D.C., US officials reportedly echoed India’s concerns, calling for stronger action against terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, despite the presence of a simultaneous Pakistani delegation.
🧭 Unity Over Partisan Politics
Tharoor stressed that in matters of national security, political unity should take precedence. He noted that the bipartisan diplomacy carried out through Operation Sindoor’s outreach proved effective in shaping global narratives.
“It underscored that when it comes to confronting terrorism, India speaks with one voice,” he wrote.
⚖️ Within the Congress Party
Tharoor’s remarks contrast with the Congress party’s official stance, which has recently criticised the government’s foreign policy. His statements may further widen the ongoing rift between him and the party leadership, particularly after his earlier remarks on the India–Pakistan ceasefire claims made by US President Donald Trump.
Last week in Thiruvananthapuram, Tharoor acknowledged differences with some in the party but affirmed his commitment to the Congress, especially during the Nilambur by-election.
