The Left Democratic Front (LDF) is open to discussions with Congress MP Shashi Tharoor if he aligns himself with the Left’s political position, LDF convener T P Ramakrishnan said on Sunday.

Speaking amid media speculation that Tharoor is drawing closer to the CPI(M), Ramakrishnan said the Left front was in the process of broadening its base and was willing to engage with parties, individuals or groups who shared its ideology.

“As part of broadening the base of the Left front, we are ready to accept parties, individuals or groups if they are willing. Shashi Tharoor is not among them at present. He is a Member of Parliament. If he adopts a stance that is supportive of the Left’s political position, we can hold discussions with him,” Ramakrishnan said.

He clarified that no talks had been held with Tharoor so far.

ALSO READ | Whatever I have to say will be said within the party: Shashi Tharoor

Speculation about a possible political shift by Tharoor gathered momentum after he stayed away from a meeting of Congress leaders in Delhi. There were also reports suggesting that his recent visit to Dubai was linked to political discussions. However, Tharoor has not made any public statement on the matter.

ALSO READ | The Cartography of Belonging

This is not the first time such speculation has surfaced. Tharoor, who has been at odds with the Congress’s national leadership, has previously faced rumours of a possible party switch, particularly after he publicly praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi.