Shashi Tharoor Challenges Congress Approach to Parliamentary Proceedings: "Not Here to Shout"

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has openly expressed dissent regarding parliamentary disruptions, highlighting a clear divergence from his party's approach. The distinguished parliamentarian from Kerala has emphasized substance over noise in legislative proceedings, creating visible tension within party ranks.

"I have maintained this position consistently. My party leadership, including Sonia Gandhi, is well aware of my stance. Though I may stand alone in this view within the party, I am completely certain that my constituents elected me to represent their interests in parliament meaningfully, not to engage in disruptive behavior. They expect me to utilize my intellectual capabilities to advocate for both national interests and their specific concerns," he stated.

The Congress party is anticipated to issue a forceful response to what could be perceived as one of their members aligning with BJP perspectives on the nation's premier democratic platform.

Since the commencement of the Winter Session last Monday, parliamentary proceedings have faced continuous disruptions over various issues, including demands for discussions on the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists and aviation disruptions. The BJP attributes these interruptions to Opposition tactics, despite the Prime Minister's pre-session admonition against such behavior.

Tharoor has previously generated controversy through actions that could be interpreted as challenging his party colleagues, including offering praise for the prime minister. His absence from consecutive party meetings has reportedly widened the rift between him and senior leadership despite efforts to resolve the ongoing tensions. He later clarified that his absence was due to caring for his elderly mother in Kerala, preventing his attendance at Delhi meetings.

His recent commendation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address at the Ramnath Goenka Lecture drew particular criticism from party members, with some questioning his continued affiliation with the Congress if he finds BJP approaches more compelling.

Serving his fourth term as MP from Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala, Tharoor enjoys nationwide popularity, particularly among younger demographics who admire his exceptional English vocabulary. He has participated in diplomatic delegations representing New Delhi's peaceful intentions globally following major Indian responses to attacks on tourists in Pahalgam.