Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, known for his nuanced positions, has once again diverged from the party line by lauding Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s diplomatic efforts following “Operation Sindoor.” In an article in a distinguished newspaper, Tharoor described Modi’s “energy, dynamism and willingness to engage” as a “prime asset for India on the global stage”.
Tharoor, who led a multi-party parliamentary delegation on a five-nation outreach—including the United States of America, Brazil, Guyana and Colombia emphasised the balanced approach of decisive military measures followed by effective diplomacy. “It affirmed that India, when united, can project its voice with clarity and conviction on international platforms,” he wrote.
This public praise arrives amid a broader Congress critique of Modi’s foreign policy, which alleges India’s diplomatic isolation post-Pakistan’s military interactions in Washington. Tharoor’s supportive remarks sharply contrast with the party’s stance and have reportedly increased friction within its ranks.
Tharoor suggested that India’s unified diplomatic presentation, reinforced by Modi’s engagement, helped shift opinions in key capitals. He noted that several nations recalibrated their positions after the delegation’s clarification on Pakistan’s links to terror, including Colombia, which reversed its initial stance on Pakistan following Operation Sindoor.
He identified four key “lessons” from the outreach: the value of national unity, clear communication, strategic soft power, and sustained public diplomacy — principles he believes should guide India’s future global strategy, drawing on what he terms the “three T’s”: tech, trade, and tradition.
BJP leaders were quick to seize on Tharoor’s praise, using it to highlight alleged internal discord in Congress and to underscore the legitimacy of Modi’s expanding foreign-policy footprint.
While the reactions within Congress were mixed, some party insiders regarded Tharoor’s remarks as a welcome recognition of effective governance, while others voiced concern, warning that such compliments could undermine the party’s critique of the current government.
