Shashi Tharoor, a senior Congress leader, has ignited a political debate with his recent article on dynastic politics in India, drawing both praise and criticism from different corners. Tharoor's piece, published in Project Syndicate, argues that the prevalence of dynastic succession in Indian politics poses a "grave threat" to the country's democracy. He contends that when political leadership is determined by family lineage rather than merit, competence, and dedication to the community, the quality of governance suffers.
Tharoor's article specifically points to the Nehru-Gandhi family's enduring influence within the Congress party, suggesting that it has inadvertently cemented the notion that political leadership can be a birthright. However, he also notes that dynastic politics is a widespread phenomenon across all major political parties in India, extending to regional players like the Samajwadi Party, RJD, Shiv Sena (UBT), and DMK. He advocates for a shift towards a merit-based approach, where leaders are chosen based on their abilities and commitment rather than their family connections. Tharoor proposes fundamental reforms, including legally mandated term limits, meaningful internal party elections, and concerted efforts to educate and empower the electorate.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has seized upon Tharoor's critique, interpreting it as a direct attack on Rahul Gandhi and other dynastic figures within the Congress party. BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla lauded the article as "insightful" and labeled Tharoor a "Khatron ke Khiladi" (daredevil) for daring to question dynastic succession within his own party. Poonawalla then issued a cautionary warning to Tharoor, alluding to potential repercussions. "Sir, when I called out Nepo Naamdar Rahul Gandhi in 2017 - you know what happened to me," Poonawalla posted on X (formerly Twitter), adding, "Sir praying for you… First family is very vengeful". Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan echoed this sentiment, suggesting that Tharoor's remarks, based on "experience," would hurt the Congress and RJD, whose politics are allegedly limited to family.
Tharoor's article and the subsequent reactions highlight the ongoing debate within Indian politics regarding meritocracy, nepotism, and the future of party leadership. His call for reforms has resonated with some who believe that Indian democracy needs to move beyond dynastic politics to ensure effective governance and representation. However, his critique has also drawn a sharp response from those who view it as an attack on the established order and a betrayal of party loyalties.
This is not the first time Tharoor has found himself at odds with his own party. Recently, he voiced support for BJP leader Swapan Dasgupta's criticism of the government's decision to deny entry to a UK-based Hindi scholar, Francesca Orsini. Tharoor argued that such actions damage India's image more than any critical article ever could, emphasizing the need for India to develop "thicker skin, a broader mind & a bigger heart". These instances suggest a willingness on Tharoor's part to challenge conventional wisdom and engage in critical self-reflection, even if it means facing criticism from within his own party.
