Congress Leader Mani Shankar Aiyar Launches Fresh Attack on Party Colleagues
Senior Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar has once again stirred controversy within the party by openly criticizing fellow Congress members while expressing admiration for the Kerala state government led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. Speaking in Thiruvananthapuram, Aiyar directed sharp remarks at prominent party figures including Member of Parliament Shashi Tharoor, senior leader Jairam Ramesh, and Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera.
Aiyar's Blunt Assessment of Internal Party Dynamics
Aiyar made the startling observation that Congress members appear to dislike each other more than they dislike communists, highlighting what he perceives as deep internal divisions within the party. He elaborated that various leaders seem to be pursuing different paths rather than working cohesively toward common goals.
The veteran politician was particularly critical of Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera, whom he described as "a puppet of the party." Aiyar revealed that Khera had been blaming him for various issues over the past two years, adding, "If Congress cannot find someone else to be the spokesperson besides Khera, the party will be in more trouble."
Praise for Kerala's Communist Government
In contrast to his criticism of his own party, Aiyar offered significant praise for Kerala's ruling communist government. He noted that the communists are united and disciplined, having won elections twice consecutively without facing significant anti-incumbency sentiment—a phenomenon he described as unprecedented in Kerala's political history.
Aiyar specifically commended Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan for taking up the baton that Congress dropped in implementing Panchayati Raj reforms, which he noted was former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's dream. Kerala currently ranks first in Panchayati Raj implementation, and Aiyar expressed pride in Vijayan's leadership while wishing continued prosperity for the state.
Targeted Criticism of Shashi Tharoor
Aiyar reserved particularly harsh words for Shashi Tharoor, accusing the MP of turning against party leadership on issues like Operation Sindoor. He suggested that Tharoor's ambition to become the next foreign minister might be driving his actions, further highlighting the internal tensions within Congress.
Congress Leadership's Response
The Congress leadership has dismissed Aiyar's comments, with Pawan Khera stating that Aiyar has no connection with Congress. This response comes after Aiyar's earlier statement predicting Vijayan's return to power as chief minister, which had already generated significant discussion within political circles.
Aiyar made his initial remark about Vijayan's likely return during the government's Vision 2031 program, which focuses on development and democracy. Congress leadership had written to prominent figures requesting they not attend the event. Reflecting on this, Aiyar said, "I don't know if such an incident is an insult or a compliment. It is a state event and also a national one. I deeply regret the absence of my colleagues."
Aiyar's Personal Stance and Political Philosophy
Throughout his remarks, Aiyar positioned himself as a truth-teller willing to face consequences for his statements. He declared, "I am a Gandhian. I speak the truth, and I am prepared for any consequences." Despite his criticisms, he expressed a desire for Congress to win in Kerala, though he admitted he believes this outcome is unlikely given current circumstances.
The senior leader's comments have exposed significant fault lines within the Congress party while providing unexpected validation for Kerala's communist government, creating a complex political narrative that continues to unfold in India's southern state.
