Is Shashi Tharoor Joining the BJP? MP's Cryptic Post Stokes Buzz
BJP MP’s Cryptic Post Stokes Buzz Over Shashi Tharoor’s Alleged Loyalty Shift
Speculation about Congress veteran Shashi Tharoor’s political future intensified on Friday after Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Baijayant Jay Panda posted a cryptic message on social media. Panda, a senior leader from Kendrapara, shared a photo with Tharoor aboard a Bhubaneswar-bound flight, writing, “My friend & fellow traveler called me mischievous for saying that we seem to be finally travelling in the same direction.” The remark reignited rumors of Tharoor drifting toward the BJP, a narrative simmering since February 2025.
Tharoor, the four-time Thiruvananthapuram MP, quickly clarified he was only heading to the Kalinga Literary Festival, responding, “Fellow traveller only to Bhubaneswar! And coming right back!!” Yet, Panda’s post amplified existing chatter, fueled by Tharoor’s recent praise for PM Narendra Modi’s diplomatic stance on the Russia-Ukraine war and Kerala’s LDF government—comments that irked Congress leaders. At the Raisina Dialogue, Tharoor admitted misjudging India’s neutral position, lauding Modi’s ability to engage both conflicting nations, a stance at odds with Congress’s criticism of the BJP.
Tensions within Congress have grown since Tharoor’s subtle hints of discontent, including a February podcast where he said, “If they don’t need me, I have options,” amid reports of being sidelined by Rahul Gandhi. His selfie with BJP’s Piyush Goyal last month added grist to the mill. However, Tharoor has consistently denied switching sides, citing ideological clashes with BJP’s Hindutva agenda. The BJP, eyeing Kerala’s 2026 assembly polls, sees potential in his crossover. Panda’s post, though ambiguous, keeps the speculation alive, leaving political circles abuzz over whether Tharoor’s loyalty might indeed shift.
