Shashi Tharoor to skip key Congress meeting on Kerala polls after Kochi event dispute

PTC Web Desk:  Senior Congress leader and MP Shashi Tharoor will not attend a meeting called by the Congress high command to review preparations for the upcoming Kerala Assembly elections, sources have said. His decision comes days after he was reportedly upset over how he was treated at a party Mahapanchayat held in Kochi.

According to sources, Tharoor felt embarrassed at the public event, which was also attended by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. The incident has highlighted signs of internal tension within the party at a time when it is gearing up for crucial state elections.

At the Kochi programme, confusion arose over the speaking order and seating arrangements. Tharoor was reportedly informed that only Rahul Gandhi would speak after him. However, several other party leaders later addressed the gathering, which Tharoor is said to have taken as a breach of protocol, given his senior position in the party.

Adding to his discomfort, Rahul Gandhi did not refer to Tharoor during his speech, something that did not go unnoticed by party workers and attendees. Sources said the combination of these issues left Tharoor feeling sidelined at a public forum.

Tharoor has since shared his disappointment with close associates, conveying that the episode reflects a continuing lack of recognition for his role and contributions within the party.

While he has chosen to stay away from the internal meeting on Kerala election strategy, Tharoor is expected to attend the Kerala Literature Festival later today, as per his schedule.

The Congress leadership has not yet issued any official response regarding the incident or Tharoor’s decision to skip the meeting.