Shashi Tharoor, a prominent Congress MP, has recently garnered attention for publicly praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi, sparking speculation about a potential rift within the Indian National Congress. Tharoor's commendations, particularly regarding Modi's global outreach and leadership during Operation Sindoor, have contrasted with the Congress party's consistent criticism of the BJP-led government's foreign policy. This isn't the first time Tharoor's views have diverged from the party line, leading to internal tensions and raising questions about his future within the Congress.

Tharoor's recent praise centered on Modi's "energy, dynamism, and willingness to engage," which he described as a "prime asset for India on the global stage". He lauded the Prime Minister's leadership during Operation Sindoor, a diplomatic initiative following India's strike on terror infrastructure in Pakistan, emphasizing the importance of national unity and clear communication in such situations. Tharoor was part of a multi-party delegation that visited several countries to convey India's position following the Pahalgam terror attack, giving him a firsthand view of the government's diplomatic efforts.

These remarks have stirred considerable debate, with the BJP seizing the opportunity to highlight the perceived differences between Tharoor and other Congress leaders, particularly Rahul Gandhi. BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari suggested that Tharoor's statements "exposed" Rahul Gandhi's anti-Modi rhetoric, implying a lack of consensus within the Congress party regarding their stance on the Prime Minister.

The Congress party, on the other hand, has largely remained silent on Tharoor's repeated praise for Modi. However, some leaders have expressed their disapproval, with one Congress leader branding him a "super BJP spokesperson". Party President Mallikarjun Kharge has also subtly criticized Tharoor, adding to the perception of a growing rift. Tharoor responded to Kharge's criticism with cryptic social media posts, further fueling speculation about his strained relationship with the party leadership.

Adding to the complexity of the situation, Tharoor recently shared a survey that projected him as the leading candidate for Kerala's Chief Minister from the United Democratic Front (UDF). This move was interpreted by some as a sign of his ambition and a potential challenge to the existing Congress leadership in Kerala. Moreover, Tharoor's recent criticism of the Emergency, blaming Indira Gandhi and Sanjay Gandhi for the "unspeakable cruelty" during that period, has further widened the gap between him and the Congress party, considering the Gandhi family's significant role in the party.

Tharoor's actions have led to speculation about his political future. Some analysts suggest that he is becoming an asset for the BJP, as his statements often align with the party's views and provide them with ammunition to attack the Congress. Others believe that Tharoor is simply expressing his own opinions, regardless of the potential consequences for his relationship with the party.

Despite the controversies and internal tensions, Tharoor remains a prominent figure in the Congress party. He has been a Member of Parliament for Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, since 2009 and is currently a member of the Congress Working Committee, the party's highest decision-making body. He has also served as a Minister of State in the past, demonstrating his experience and influence within the party. Whether he can navigate these challenges and maintain his position within the Congress remains to be seen, but his recent actions have undoubtedly created a stir and raised questions about his long-term political trajectory.