Shashi Tharoor Responds to Party Critics Over LOC Comment: ‘Have Better Things to Do’

Clarifies Statement on 2016 Surgical Strikes

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has responded to internal party criticism over his recent comments made during a visit to Panama. He clarified on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). His remarks about India crossing the Line of Control (LoC) referred strictly to retaliatory strikes. These strikes followed recent terror attacks. He did not refer to past wars or earlier military actions. Tharoor emphasized he was speaking in the context of post-terror reprisals and accused critics of misrepresenting his statements.

Udit Raj Leads the Backlash

Congress leader Udit Raj openly criticized Tharoor. He accused him of disregarding the historical achievements of the Indian military. Tharoor also overlooked the accomplishments of the Congress party. Raj sarcastically proposed that Tharoor should become the “super spokesperson of the BJP.” Tharoor allegedly aligned with the narrative of the ruling party.

In his posts, Raj referred to military actions during the 1965 and 1971 wars. Tharoor also mentioned covert strikes carried out during the UPA era under Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. He used these points to argue that India had crossed the LoC on several occasions before 2016. He questioned Tharoor’s loyalty to the Congress and claimed the party had elevated him. Now, Tharoor undermines its legacy.

Tharoor Defends Himself Amid Panama Visit

While leading a multi-party delegation abroad, Tharoor responded briefly to the controversy, stating he was preoccupied with official engagements. “After a long and successful day in Panama… I don’t really have time for this,” he wrote. He reiterated that his comments were misunderstood and highlighted India’s historically restrained responses to cross-border provocations before 2016.

Congress Leaders Join the Criticism

Pawan Khera, head of the party’s media and publicity department, shared historical images from the 1965 Indo-Pak war. These images were meant to counter Tharoor’s remarks. One image showed Indian soldiers near Lahore. He posted a media report. It cited former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. It confirmed that multiple surgical strikes were carried out during the UPA tenure. He tagged Tharoor in the post again.

Jairam Ramesh, Congress’s communication in-charge, also amplified the criticism by reposting Khera’s comments.

A History of Disagreements

This is not the first time Tharoor has been at odds with his party’s public stance. Following the Pahalgam terror attack, he stated that no country has 100% foolproof intelligence. This remark drew flak from Udit Raj. Udit Raj accused him of offering excuses on behalf of the BJP-led central government.

Tharoor had previously retorted that Raj was more familiar with what aligns with BJP interests. Raj is a former BJP member himself. Tharoor suggested that Raj’s accusations lacked credibility.

The public disagreement underscores the growing divide within the Congress. Members are conflicted on how to address matters of national security. They also differ on political messaging. Tharoor maintains his remarks were misinterpreted. However, his colleagues continue to express concern. They believe his statements stray from the party’s narrative and risk political misalignment.

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