Shashi Tharoor Skips Congress Meet After Feeling Sidelined at Kochi Event

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has decided to stay away from an important meeting convened by the Congress high command to discuss preparations for the upcoming Kerala Assembly elections. The development has brought internal party tensions into focus at a time when the Congress is gearing up for a crucial electoral battle in the state.

According to sources familiar with the matter, Tharoor’s decision follows his dissatisfaction over how he was treated at a recent Mahapanchayat event held in Kochi, which was attended by senior party leaders, including Rahul Gandhi. The veteran parliamentarian reportedly felt insulted due to lapses in protocol and a lack of acknowledgement during the programme.

The issue reportedly began with confusion surrounding the seating arrangement and the sequence of speakers at the Kochi event. Tharoor was initially informed that only Rahul Gandhi would address the gathering after his speech. However, several other party leaders eventually spoke following Gandhi’s arrival, deviating from the original plan. This unexpected change was perceived by Tharoor as a public slight, particularly given his seniority and long-standing role within the party.

Adding to the unease was the fact that Rahul Gandhi did not mention Tharoor by name during his address. Party observers noted that the omission stood out, considering Tharoor’s prominence in Kerala politics and his national profile. Sources said the combination of these factors contributed to a sense of being sidelined, which Tharoor later conveyed to his close associates.

The decision to skip the Congress high command meeting has triggered discussions within party circles about internal discipline, communication gaps, and the treatment of senior leaders. With the Kerala Assembly elections approaching, the absence of a leader of Tharoor’s stature from strategic discussions has raised concerns about unity and coordination within the state unit.

Sources further indicated that Tharoor is displeased with both the state and central Congress leadership, viewing the Kochi episode as part of a broader pattern of disregard for his contributions. While he has chosen not to attend the election-related meeting, Tharoor is expected to participate in other public engagements, including the Kerala Literature Festival, underscoring that his decision is limited to party forums for now.

The Congress leadership has so far not issued any official clarification or response regarding Tharoor’s reported discomfort or his decision to opt out of the Kerala election meeting. As the party navigates internal challenges ahead of a high-stakes electoral contest, the episode highlights the growing need for better coordination and sensitivity within the organisation.