Shashi Tharoor’s ‘I Have Options’ Remark Sparks Congress Rift Rumors

Speculation is growing over Shashi Tharoor’s possible disillusionment with the Congress party, especially regarding his leadership role in Kerala. Reports suggest that the four-time Congress MP has been unhappy with the leadership vacuum in the state, and a recent meeting with Rahul Gandhi has further fueled discussions about his future within the party.

Will Tharoor Quit Congress? Kerala Leaders Say No

Despite the rumors, Congress leaders in Kerala insist Tharoor will not leave the party.

KPCC President K Sudhakaran:

"I don't believe Tharoor will leave the party or join CPM."

However, Tharoor’s recent comments and actions indicate that he is actively seeking a bigger leadership role within the party.

Tharoor’s Chief Ministerial Aspirations

According to reports, Tharoor has expressed his desire to be the Chief Minister of Kerala if Congress wins the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections.

He claims that multiple surveys rank him as the most acceptable leader among Congress stalwarts in Kerala.

"I Have Options If You Don’t Need Me": Tharoor’s Message to Congress

Tharoor has reportedly sent a clear message to the party:

Shashi Tharoor in an interview with The Indian Express:

"If the party wants me, I will be there for the party. If not, I have my own things to do. You should not think that I don’t have any option to spend time. I have options—my books, speeches, and invitations from across the world for talks."

This statement hints at growing frustration with the Congress leadership and signals that he may explore other opportunities if sidelined within the party.

Tharoor Upsets Congress by Praising CPM & PM Modi

Praise for CPM’s Policies in Kerala

Tharoor further raised eyebrows within Congress by publicly appreciating the policies of the CPM-led Kerala government.

Tharoor on X (formerly Twitter):

"Economic development should, as far as possible, be above the petty divisions of party politics."

His remarks were seen as an indirect criticism of Congress' approach in Kerala.

Praise for PM Modi’s US Visit

Tharoor also made headlines for praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi after his two-day visit to the United States, saying:

"Major concerns were addressed during Modi’s Washington visit. This way, there is time to discuss and negotiate rather than making hasty decisions."

He later clarified that his praise was not political but in India’s broader interest, stating:

"We cannot always speak only in terms of party interest."

What’s Next for Shashi Tharoor?

Will Congress recognize Tharoor’s leadership aspirations, or will he chart his own path?
Will he be given a bigger role in Kerala politics, or will tensions within the party escalate?

With Kerala Assembly elections approaching, Tharoor’s future in Congress remains uncertain. Will he stay and fight for leadership or explore new political avenues? Only time will tell.