Congress Forms Kerala Election Committees in Bid to Placate Shashi Tharoor
In a strategic move ahead of the upcoming Kerala assembly elections, the All India Congress Committee (AICC) has officially constituted key election committees for the state. This development is widely perceived as a direct attempt to address and mitigate the concerns raised by senior party leader and Member of Parliament, Shashi Tharoor.
Tharoor's Grievances and Party Response
Shashi Tharoor, a prominent figure within the Congress party, had publicly voiced his dissatisfaction, citing that he was being systematically sidelined and not accorded the due consideration and respect befitting his stature and contributions. His grievances centered on a perceived lack of meaningful involvement in crucial party decisions and electoral strategies, particularly concerning his home state of Kerala.
The formation of these new election committees by the AICC leadership is interpreted by political observers as a conciliatory gesture aimed at appeasing Tharoor and ensuring his active participation and support in the forthcoming electoral battle. The committees are expected to play a pivotal role in candidate selection, campaign management, and overall strategy formulation for the polls.
Strategic Implications for Kerala Congress
This decision underscores the Congress party's intent to present a united front and streamline its organizational machinery in Kerala, a state where it faces significant political challenges. By addressing internal discord and incorporating influential voices like Tharoor's into the formal decision-making process, the party aims to bolster its prospects and mount a cohesive campaign.
The move also highlights the ongoing efforts within the Congress to manage internal dynamics and balance the aspirations of its senior leaders with the collective goal of electoral success. Whether this step will fully satisfy Tharoor's demands and lead to a harmonious working relationship remains to be seen as the election season progresses.
Reported by Arjun Raghunath | Last Updated: 13 February 2026, 12:52 IST