Amidst swirling speculation linking him to the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)], Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has declined to comment on the reports. Tharoor, currently in Dubai attending a literature festival, stated that he had seen the reports but felt it inappropriate to address them while abroad. The reports surfaced on Sunday, January 25, 2026, prompting reporters to seek his response.
The rumours suggest potential discussions between Tharoor and individuals associated with the CPI(M). These reports have emerged against a backdrop of whispers about Tharoor's purported dissatisfaction within the Congress party. Sources suggest that Tharoor may be feeling sidelined by party leaders in Kerala and that he was not adequately acknowledged by Rahul Gandhi at a recent event in Kochi.
Meanwhile, the CPI(M) has dismissed the reports as "irrelevant". LDF convener T.P. Ramakrishnan denied any discussions with Tharoor but stated that the LDF and CPI(M) are open to accepting individuals, groups, or parties that align with the Left Front's political stance. CPI-M state secretary M. V. Govindan also downplayed the speculation.
The Congress party has also weighed in on the matter, asserting that Tharoor is a senior leader and that any issues he has will be resolved. The party denied that he was planning to leave the organization.
Shashi Tharoor has been a Member of Parliament for Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, since 2009. He is a prominent figure in Indian politics and is also known for his literary works and diplomatic experience. He has served as the chairman of the Committee on External Affairs. In May 2025, Tharoor led the Indian government's delegation to the US and Panama for diplomatic outreach following the Pahalgam terror attack.
The speculation regarding Tharoor's potential move to the CPI(M) comes ahead of anticipated Kerala Assembly elections. The political landscape in Kerala has often seen fluid alliances, and any shift in allegiance by a leader of Tharoor's stature could have implications.
For now, Tharoor's silence on the matter leaves room for further speculation. Whether these rumors hold any weight remains to be seen as the political climate continues to evolve.
