Thiruvananthapuram: Shashi Tharoor’s active participation in the Congress party’s two-day brainstorming session in Wayanad has helped silence internal critics and project a united front ahead of Kerala’s Assembly elections in April-May.

The meeting focused on campaign planning and came in the wake of Tharoor’s recent remarks praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which had caused unease within both the state and national Congress leadership.

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A four-time MP from Thiruvananthapuram, Tharoor has carved a unique political path in Kerala, rising to prominence without a traditional political background and earning widespread appeal for his intellectual confidence, global exposure, and articulate public persona. While his individuality has occasionally drawn scrutiny, his engagement at the Wayanad conclave signalled a commitment to party cohesion.

By participating actively and aligning with senior state leaders, Tharoor reinforced the message that personal style would not overshadow collective purpose, a key focus as the Congress seeks to prevent Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan from securing a third consecutive term.

 

Party insiders noted that Tharoor’s popularity—particularly among urban, middle-class, and younger voters—could be decisive if channelled through a disciplined campaign. His post-meeting remarks on 4 January reflected this sentiment: “It was good to see a solid turnout and the quiet determination that is animating the discussions. Everyone appreciates that this is no time for complacency; there is work to be done. The local self-Government election victory must not be the pillow upon which we rest, but the launchpad for the final mile.”

The conclave, held from Sunday, underscored the Congress’s efforts to balance flair with focus and signal readiness for the upcoming high-stakes polls. Tharoor’s course correction may mark a turning point not only for his own political narrative but also for the party’s bid to project unity and seriousness in Kerala.

— IANS