Shashi Tharoor Fires Back at Congress Critics: ‘I Have Better Things to Do’ Amid Operation Sindoor Debate

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has found himself at the center of a political controversy after praising India’s counter-terrorism stance during an all-party delegation visit abroad. Shashi Tharoor fires back at Congress critics. His remarks, which acknowledged the Modi government’s approach to national security, have drawn sharp criticism from his own party. However, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has stepped in to defend Tharoor, questioning the Congress party’s stance and its expectations from MPs representing India internationally.

This political tussle has reignited debates on Operation Sindoor, India’s latest military action against terror camps. The controversy raises important questions about party loyalty, national security discourse, and the evolving political landscape in India.

Tharoor’s Remarks and Congress’s Backlash

During his visit to Panama, Tharoor praised India’s 2016 surgical strike and 2019 Balakot air strike, emphasizing that India’s response to terrorism had evolved significantly. He stated that the Modi government had sent a strong signal to terror groups, reinforcing India’s commitment to national security.

However, his remarks did not sit well with Congress leaders. Udit Raj, a senior Congress member, accused Tharoor of acting as a “super spokesperson of the BJP”, alleging that his statements aligned more with the ruling party than his own. Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera also distanced the party from Tharoor’s comments, arguing that previous governments had conducted similar military operations without publicizing them.

Shashi Tharoor fires back: ‘I have better things to do’

Facing mounting criticism, Tharoor took to X (formerly Twitter) to hit back at his detractors. He dismissed the backlash, stating:

“Critics are welcome to distort my words, but I genuinely have better things to do.”

Tharoor clarified that his remarks were focused on retaliatory strikes following recent terror attacks, not previous wars. He emphasized that his statements were made in a personal capacity and were not intended to represent Congress or the government.

Kiren Rijiju’s Defense of Tharoor

In response to the backlash, Kiren Rijiju took to social media to defend Tharoor, questioning the Congress party’s criticism. Rijiju posted on X:

“What does the Congress party want & how much they really care for the country? Should the Indian MPs go to foreign nations and speak against India and its Prime Minister? There’s a limit to political desperation!”

Rijiju’s remarks highlight the growing divide within Congress, as Tharoor’s statements appear to resonate with BJP’s national security narrative. His defense of Tharoor also underscores the broader political battle over Operation Sindoor, which has been a focal point of India’s counter-terrorism strategy.

Congress’s Internal Struggles

Tharoor’s remarks have exposed internal rifts within Congress, with some leaders openly criticizing him while others remain silent. The party’s response reflects a broader struggle to maintain unity amid differing views on national security and foreign policy.

Congress’s Mallikarjun Kharge had earlier described Operation Sindoor as a “chut-put yudh” (sporadic skirmish), a statement that BJP leaders have used to accuse Congress of undermining India’s military efforts. The party’s mixed messaging on national security has led to speculation about its stance on India’s defense policies.

Political Implications

This controversy has significant political implications:

• Tharoor’s Future in Congress: His remarks may alienate him from party leadership, potentially affecting his political career.
• BJP’s Advantage: Rijiju’s defense of Tharoor allows BJP to frame the narrative around national security, positioning itself as the party that prioritizes India’s defense.
• Congress’s Dilemma: The party must navigate internal divisions while maintaining a coherent stance on national security.

Conclusion

The Shashi Tharoor-Kiren Rijiju controversy is more than just a political spat, it reflects deeper tensions within Congress and the broader debate on India’s counter-terrorism policies. As the 2025 elections approach, this issue could shape political discourse, influencing voter perceptions and party strategies.