Despite Congress proposing four names for a global outreach initiative to address terrorism originating from Pakistan, Shashi Tharoor's name was notably absent from their list. The decision to exclude Tharoor from the initial list has raised eyebrows, especially considering his extensive international experience and communication skills.

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju requested the Congress party to suggest four names for inclusion in delegations being dispatched abroad to articulate India's position on terrorism emanating from Pakistan. In response, Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, proposed Anand Sharma, a former Cabinet Minister, Gaurav Gogoi, Deputy Leader of the party in the Lok Sabha, Dr. Syed Naseer Hussain, a Rajya Sabha MP, and Raja Brar, Lok Sabha MP.

However, the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs later announced that Shashi Tharoor would, in fact, lead an all-party delegation. Other members of the delegation include BJP leaders Ravi Shankar Prasad and Baijayant Panda, Janata Dal (United) MP Sanjay Kumar Jha, DMK's Kanimozhi Karunanidhi, NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) leader Supriya Sule, and Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) MP Shrikant Shinde.

The government is launching a major diplomatic initiative to highlight Pakistan's role in terrorism, especially after Operation Sindoor, which was launched in response to a recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. This initiative involves sending seven all-party delegations to strategic partner nations, including members of the UN Security Council, to present a united stance on cross-border terrorism.

The Kerala Congress responded to these developments by saying that the country needs a trusted representative at the global level and appreciated the government for choosing a Congress leader to represent the country. The Congress further expressed confidence that Tharoor would effectively present India's position and help correct the Modi government's “past diplomatic mistakes”.

Tharoor said he was honored by the government's invitation to lead a delegation to key capitals to present the nation's point of view. He added that when national interest is involved, he would not be found wanting.