New Delhi: Congress MP Imran Masood on Tuesday made a sharp political remark aimed at fellow party leader Shashi Tharoor, asserting that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has no political presence in Kerala and advising Tharoor not to “get disoriented.”

Speaking to ANI, Masood said, “He is eyeing Kerala and is in a hurry to go to Kerala. I want to tell Tharoor Sahab that the BJP does not exist in Kerala. Don’t get disoriented.” Though subtle, the comment triggered speculation within political circles, coming amid Tharoor’s recent remarks and appearances outside Kerala.

Tharoor was in Bihar on Sunday to inaugurate the Nalanda Literature Festival 2025, held in Rajgir, where he joined Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan at the opening ceremony. Addressing the media, Tharoor underlined the importance of literary forums in keeping India’s intellectual traditions alive.

“Knowledge should not be limited to classrooms. Literature festivals provide an opportunity to discuss ideas beyond universities,” Tharoor said, describing Nalanda as a living symbol of India’s civilisational legacy.

He also spoke positively about Bihar’s development and the revival of Nalanda University, recalling former President APJ Abdul Kalam’s vision.

“Twenty years ago, when Dr Kalam spoke about reviving Nalanda, I wondered about its future. Today, seeing the campus and interacting with students is a matter of great joy,” Tharoor said, urging continued government support.

Earlier in the day, Masood made another striking statement, asserting that Priyanka Gandhi Vadra would respond decisively if she were Prime Minister. “Make Priyanka Gandhi the Prime Minister and see how she retaliates like Indira Gandhi,” he said, invoking the legacy of the former Prime Minister and stressing her political resolve.

Masood’s twin remarks — one targeting Kerala politics and the other projecting Priyanka Gandhi’s leadership — have added fresh fuel to the Congress’s political discourse as the party navigates both internal dynamics and a combative national landscape.