Senior Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar’s recent social media post from Thiruvananthapuram has stirred up tensions within the party. Aiyar’s comments, seemingly directed at leaders K.C. Venugopal and Pawan Khera, have fueled internal discord in the Congress, particularly in politically sensitive Kerala. Aiyar, speaking to the media, praised the Left government in Kerala, likening it to a “Rajeevian government” that embodies former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi’s vision of decentralized governance.
Aiyar highlighted that only four states, including Kerala, have effectively implemented this vision, all situated in southern India. He commended Kerala’s strong performance on governance metrics. Despite expressing his desire for the United Democratic Front (UDF) to regain power, Aiyar, as a Gandhian, acknowledged the likelihood of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s re-election. He lauded Vijayan’s intelligence and hoped for continued global engagement by a re-elected administration.
While affirming his loyalty to the Congress, Aiyar criticized party figures, including Shashi Tharoor, whom he labeled as “the biggest careerist.” Aiyar questioned Tharoor’s admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi despite his past role in the UPA government. Dismissing rumors of party-switching, Aiyar asserted that no political group would welcome an independent-minded “troublemaker.” He hinted at exploring alternative avenues to voice his opinions if expelled from the Congress.
Leader of Opposition V.D. Satheesan rebuked Aiyar’s remarks, questioning his loyalty to the Congress and reminding him of his past ties to the party.
