New Delhi: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has once again drawn attention with his pointed praise for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling him a "prime asset for India" in the context of India's diplomatic outreach under Operation Sindoor.
In a column published in The Hindu, Tharoor, who was part of the recent five-nation mission, highlighted the Prime Minister’s “energy, dynamism and willingness to engage” as strengths that bolster India’s global standing.
The remarks come amid ongoing tensions between Tharoor and his party, with the Congress distancing itself from his praise of the government’s handling of Operation Sindoor, an international outreach mounted in response to Pakistan’s recent diplomatic campaigns.
‘India Must Build on Unity and Soft Power’
In his column, Tharoor emphasised that the mission reflected a united India and the effectiveness of strategic, long-term diplomacy. He wrote, “The power of unity, the efficacy of clear communication, the strategic value of soft power, and the imperative of sustained public diplomacy” were among the key takeaways from his participation in the outreach programme.
He also stressed the need for India to adapt to an “increasingly complex international landscape,” and proposed that India’s global strategy be guided by the “three T’s," tech, trade and tradition, to secure a “more just, secure and prosperous world”.
Operation Sindoor and Political Backlash
Tharoor’s role in Operation Sindoor had earlier sparked controversy within the Congress, with sections of the party criticising the Centre’s choice to include a senior opposition MP. In his column, Tharoor addressed the political uproar, saying the mission's aim was “to provide clarity” on India’s position to the global community and showcase a unified front.
While Tharoor’s commentary has earned praise from the BJP, it has also raised eyebrows within his own party, where his public appreciation of PM Modi has previously been met with scepticism.
