The Indian National Congress is facing a deepening internal conflict, with senior leader K. Muraleedharan openly criticizing Shashi Tharoor, a fellow party MP, over his stance on national security and his perceived closeness to the central government. Muraleedharan has gone so far as to declare that Tharoor will not be invited to any Congress events in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, until he changes his position.

Muraleedharan's recent remarks are a continuation of his criticism of Tharoor in recent weeks, questioning his loyalty and alignment within the Congress party. He stated that Tharoor, a member of the Congress Working Committee (CWC), is no longer seen as "one of us". He also suggested that the party's national leadership might consider disciplinary action against Tharoor. "Till he (Tharoor) changes his stance, we will not invite him to any party programme held in Thiruvananthapuram. He is not with us, so there is no question of him boycotting an event," Muraleedharan told reporters.

This censure stems from Tharoor's perceived support for the central government, particularly on issues of national security. Tharoor had defended his position at an event in Kochi, stating, "The nation comes first, and parties are the means of making the country better". He also acknowledged the criticism he has received for supporting the armed forces and the central government on recent issues related to national security, but affirmed that he would stand his ground because he believes it is the right thing for the country. Tharoor has expressed his frustration that when leaders advocate for cooperation with other parties in the interest of national security, they are often viewed as disloyal by their own parties, which he sees as "a big problem".

Adding to the friction, Muraleedharan has also criticized Tharoor for an article he wrote that was critical of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's role during the Emergency. Reacting to the article, Muraleedharan suggested that Tharoor should "choose a clear political path" if he feels constrained within the Congress. In early July 2025, Muraleedharan said Tharoor "should first decide which party he belongs to". He advised Tharoor to step down from his posts if he feels unable to continue in the present setup.

Muraleedharan also took a dig at Tharoor for sharing a survey on social media that suggested he was the top choice for Chief Minister in Kerala, where elections are due next year. Muraleedharan stated that the Congress party has a framework of rules to decide who will be the next CM.

Previously, Muraleedharan had criticized Tharoor for praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling the remarks "quite disgusting," especially during election season. He found it troubling that a member of the party's working committee would continue to praise a political rival. Muraleedharan also criticized Tharoor for stating he hadn't been invited to campaign for a bypoll, calling the statement "unfortunate".

These public criticisms and the barring of Tharoor from party events in Thiruvananthapuram highlight a significant rift within the Congress party. The situation puts pressure on Tharoor to align himself more closely with the party's views or consider a different political direction.