Tharoor praises PM: Shashi calls Modi 'prime asset'; hails his 'energy, dynamism and willingness to engage'

NEW DELHI: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Monday praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying his energy, dynamism and willingness to engage remains a 'prime asset' for India globally. These remarks could strain his relationship with Congress party leadership.


Tharoor made these comments in an article in the Hindu and it comes at a time when Congress has been critical of PM Modi government's foreign policy decisions. The party has alleged that Indian diplomacy is being 'shattered' and the country stands 'isolated' globally.

Tharoor's supportive stance towards the PM appears to conflict with his party's position, potentially widening existing rifts between him and Congress leadership.

Tharoor acknowledged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vigour and diplomatic engagement remain valuable for India internationally, though requiring additional support. These comments, made on Monday, might create tension within his party and further strain his relationship with its leadership.

The timing of Tharoor's commendation is notable, as it comes when the Congress has consistently criticised the Modi government's foreign policy, claiming that Indian diplomacy is deteriorating and the nation faces international isolation.

In his article, Tharoor highlighted that the diplomatic efforts following 'Operation Sindoor' demonstrated national unity and successful communication.

The Prime Minister's Office shared Tharoor's article on X, noting "Lok Sabha MP and former Union Minister Dr. Shashi Tharoor writes- Lessons from Operation Sindoor's global outreach."

The BJP criticised the Congress regarding Tharoor's article, suggesting it contradicted Rahul Gandhi's position. BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari commented on X about Tharoor's recognition of PM Modi's international engagement benefiting India.

Tharoor's article emphasised that "Prime Minister Narendra Modi's energy, dynamism and willingness to engage remains a prime asset for India on the global stage but deserves greater backing."

He noted that the diplomatic response to 'Operation Sindoor' demonstrated India's ability to effectively communicate its position internationally when united. Tharoor had led a multi-party delegation to various countries to present India's position following the Pahalgam incident.