No neglect, maybe communication gap: Congress after Tharoor says he wasn’t invited for Nilambur bypoll campaign
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor surprised many this week when he revealed he had not been invited to campaign for the Nilambur Assembly bypoll in Kerala. His remark sparked speculation about internal issues in the party’s state unit. However, Congress leaders quickly denied any deliberate exclusion and blamed the situation on a communication gap.
The Nilambur bypoll, taking place in Kerala’s politically significant Malappuram district, is a key test for the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF). Given Tharoor’s growing influence and visibility, his absence from the campaign drew public and media attention.
Tharoor’s Statement Triggers Political Buzz
Tharoor told reporters that no one had asked him to campaign. He made it clear that he would have participated if the party had reached out.
“I wasn’t asked to campaign in Nilambur. If someone had invited me, I would have made time,” Tharoor said.
The statement created a buzz across political and media circles. Some wondered whether this signaled internal rifts in the state unit. Others questioned whether Tharoor’s popularity was making some leaders uncomfortable.
Congress Denies Any Intentional Snub
KPCC President K. Sudhakaran quickly addressed the issue. He said the party had not deliberately left Tharoor out of the campaign. According to Sudhakaran, the team handling the campaign likely assumed Tharoor was busy with Parliament duties.
“There was no plan to keep him away. If there was a lapse, it was purely due to poor communication. We highly value Tharoor’s presence,” he said.
Opposition leader V.D. Satheesan echoed the same sentiment. He stressed that the party respects Tharoor’s role and would welcome his involvement in future campaigns.
Not the First Time Tharoor Was Left Out
This is not the first time questions have surfaced about Tharoor’s involvement in state-level campaigns. Though he is a prominent national figure, his independent voice and reformist stance have often set him apart from the traditional party leadership.
He was part of the G-23 group that called for changes within the Congress leadership. Despite this, he has stayed loyal and active in key campaigns, including the Bharat Jodo Yatra.
Why Nilambur Matters
The Nilambur seat became vacant after P.V. Anvar resigned. Congress fielded Aryadan Shoukath, son of veteran leader Aryadan Mohammed, as their candidate.
The bypoll is critical for Congress. Nilambur lies in a region where both the LDF and the IUML hold influence. In such contests, the presence of senior leaders like Tharoor could make a difference.
Why Tharoor’s Presence Is Important
Tharoor connects well with young, urban, and minority voters. His strong media presence and articulate voice help the party reach wider audiences. Many voters, especially in educated segments, respond positively to his speeches and campaigns.
His absence in Nilambur raised concerns about how well the party coordinates such high-stakes campaigns.
Congress Seeks to Limit Damage
Reports suggest that KPCC leaders are now reaching out to Tharoor. They plan to include him in upcoming campaigns and involve him in strategic meetings. The party wants to ensure that such lapses don’t repeat in the future.
According to party insiders, Tharoor will be invited to speak at other campaign events soon. His presence could strengthen Congress’s image ahead of the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections.
Tharoor Reacts Calmly
Tharoor chose not to escalate the issue. He welcomed the party’s explanation and said he remained ready to support the campaign whenever needed.
“I appreciate the clarification. There’s no issue. I will always stand with the party and serve wherever asked,” he said.
A Lesson in Communication
This incident may seem minor, but it shows how poor coordination can lead to unwanted headlines. With major elections approaching, the Congress must tighten internal communication and utilize all its key leaders effectively.
Tharoor’s case is a reminder: voters notice more than just speeches. They also observe who is included, who is missing, and what that might mean.
Conclusion
Tharoor’s exclusion from the Nilambur bypoll campaign likely resulted from a misstep, not malice. Congress has moved quickly to clarify the issue and mend the gap. As Kerala gears up for larger political battles, the party must ensure better coordination and stronger teamwork. In a tight electoral race, even one missed invite can spark a political storm.
