**Shashi Tharoor Excluded from Congress Events Amid National Security Dispute**
In a significant development within the Congress party, senior leader K Muraleedharan announced on Sunday that Shashi Tharoor will not be invited to any party events in Thiruvananthapuram until he revises his position on national security matters. This statement underscores the widening rift between Tharoor, a member of the Congress Working Committee (CWC), and the party leadership.
Muraleedharan emphasized that Tharoor is no longer viewed as part of the Congress collective, stating, “Until he 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.” This remark came in response to inquiries about Tharoor’s recent comments regarding national security.
The tension escalated following Tharoor’s assertion that the nation should take precedence over party affiliations, a sentiment he expressed during an event in Kochi. He acknowledged facing criticism for his support of the armed forces and the central government in light of recent events affecting the country and its borders. “But I will stand my ground, because I believe this is the right thing for the country,” Tharoor stated.
Tharoor also highlighted the challenges faced by party members who advocate for collaboration with other political entities in the interest of national security, suggesting that such calls are often perceived as disloyalty within their own parties.
Muraleedharan previously criticized Tharoor for sharing a survey indicating he is the United Democratic Front’s (UDF) preferred choice for Chief Minister, questioning his loyalty to the Congress party. This criticism reflects the ongoing discord between Tharoor and the party’s central leadership, particularly following his comments after the Pahalgam terror attack, which some party members felt undermined the Congress’s position.
Additionally, Muraleedharan took issue with Tharoor’s recent article in a Malayalam daily, which criticized former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s actions during the Emergency. He urged Tharoor to clarify his political alignment if he feels constrained within the Congress framework.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how this internal conflict will impact Tharoor’s political future and the Congress party’s unity.
**FAQ**
**Q: Why is Shashi Tharoor being excluded from Congress events?**
A: Shashi Tharoor is being excluded from Congress events due to his stance on national security issues, which senior party leader K Muraleedharan claims has distanced him from the party.
