In a significant development within the Congress party, senior leader Shashi Tharoor's non-appearance at a key strategic gathering has drawn attention from the party's high command, further highlighting existing tensions. The Congress Parliamentary Strategy Group convened at the residence of CPP chairperson Sonia Gandhi on Tuesday, with almost all top leaders in attendance, including party president Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi.
Tharoor's Dubai Trip and Delayed Return
Sources indicate that Tharoor, who was participating in a literature festival in Dubai, returned to Delhi around 8 PM on Tuesday, missing the crucial meeting called ahead of the Budget Session commencing on Wednesday. A senior Congress leader confirmed that his absence was duly noted by the party leadership, underscoring the growing distance between Tharoor and the central command.
Congress Kerala Unit's Social Media Controversy
Meanwhile, the social media team of Congress's Kerala unit has once again found itself embroiled in controversy. Following last year's incident where its head V T Balram resigned after a post linking Bihar with bidis sparked backlash, the team recently targeted IIT Madras Director V Kamakoti after he received the Padma Shri in science and engineering.
The team posted on X, "Congratulations to V Kamakoti on receiving the honour. The nation recognises your bleeding edge research on Cow Urine at IIT Madras, taking Gomutra to world stage." This remark drew a sharp retort from Zoho founder Sridhar Vembu, who defended Kamakoti's credentials, stating he "richly deserves the honour."
BJP President Nitin Nabin's Pre-Poll Tour
In political developments elsewhere, newly elected BJP national president Nitin Nabin is set to visit poll-bound West Bengal on Wednesday as part of his nationwide 'pravas' itinerary. Party insiders describe this as his "introductory phase" ahead of Assembly elections scheduled in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam, West Bengal, and Puducherry.
Nabin's tour aims to assess poll preparedness, meet significant local leaders, and ensure smooth campaigning in these crucial states. This strategic move underscores the BJP's focus on strengthening its organizational presence in key electoral battlegrounds.
