Senior Congress leaders have clearly instructed party members to avoid making statements that diverge from the party’s official stance amid the ongoing debate over Congress’s strategy in Kerala. This directive comes shortly after a controversy surrounding remarks made by MP Shashi Tharoor.
According to sources familiar with the situation, during a meeting focused on Congress’s approach in Kerala, Rahul Gandhi emphasized that leaders should proceed with caution regarding political strategies and refrain from actions or statements that contradict the party line.
“I understand that the people are quite passionate and are seeking change, which is why we must be extremely cautious about our political strategy and direction. Any actions or statements that go against the party line disrespects the people of Kerala,” Rahul Gandhi was reported to have said during the discussion.
The Congress president highlighted the importance of discipline, maintaining unity, and populating vacant positions to bolster the party’s presence in Kerala.
After the meeting, AICC in-charge of Kerala, Deepa Dasmunshi, told reporters, “This clearly indicates that if anyone makes personal statements, we will take stringent action, as we have no right to disrespect the citizens of Kerala.”
Shashi Tharoor’s Response
During the meeting, sources indicated that party leadership emphasized the need to strengthen the organization. The top leadership did not seek clarification from Tharoor regarding his recent comments, as he had already explained the issue and pointed out that his statements in a Malayalam podcast had been misinterpreted in the English version.
Later, Tharoor took to X to state, “We had a fruitful meeting with Kerala Congress leaders today, including Congress president Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and general secretary Deepa Dasmunshi, which concluded with a strong affirmation of party unity as we approach the election season.”
However, sources clarified that there was no discussion regarding any leadership changes in Kerala in the lead-up to the elections.
The Assembly elections are scheduled to occur in Kerala between March and April next year. As the main opposition party in the state, Congress aims to reclaim power from the LDF.
