Putin's visit has been seen as a significant moment in the relationship between the two countries, with discussions focusing on defence, energy, and trade.
New Delhi: The Kerala Congress on Friday sparked controversy after posting content on X that many have deemed objectionable during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s state visit to India.
The post, widely criticised for being disrespectful towards a visiting head of state, stood out as an unusual breach of diplomatic etiquette. In the message, the Kerala unit of the Congress referred to Putin as the “new PawPaw” of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s supporters — a remark seen as stemming from frustration after senior party leaders, including Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, were not included in the list of those scheduled to meet the Russian President.
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“NEW DADDY ALERT | Putin is the new PawPaw of Modi Bhakts. Hope Putin will be able stay put till end of December before they change to a new one,” the Kerala Congress posted on X.
In diplomatic engagements, political parties and governments typically maintain a level of decorum and respect when commenting on foreign dignitaries, even when political disagreements exist. The Kerala Congress’s post has therefore raised questions about its understanding of diplomatic norms and the potential implications for India’s international image.
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Meanwhile, in a twist that drew attention within political circles, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor — who represents Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala — received an invitation to a banquet hosted in honour of President Putin, while Rahul Gandhi and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge were left off the guest list.
Reacting to the development, Congress leader Pawan Khera said he was “quite surprised” by the selection.
“It's quite surprising that an invitation was sent. Jinhone invite kiya unhone kamaal kiya, jinne invitation liya vo bhi kamaal kar rahe hai,” Khera remarked.
“Everyone's conscience has a voice. When my leaders aren't invited, but I am, we should understand why the game is being played, who is playing the game, and why we shouldn't be part of it.”
Tharoor later confirmed that he had received an invitation to the state banquet at Rashtrapati Bhavan, noting that he “certainly should be going.”
Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh also clarified that both Rahul Gandhi and Kharge had not been invited to the official dinner. Government sources, however, indicated earlier that the visiting Russian delegation — not the Indian government — typically determines whom it meets outside formal programmes.
Putin's ongoing visit is regarded as an important moment in India–Russia relations, with a broad agenda covering defence cooperation, energy partnerships, and trade. During the visit, Putin praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a leader “who doesn't give in to pressure,” a remark viewed as an attempt to underscore the strength of the long-standing bilateral partnership rooted in mutual trust and collaboration across defence, nuclear energy, and space sectors.
Published: 06 Dec 2025, 07:56 am IST
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