“We are moving together, on same page,” says Shashi Tharoor after meeting Rahul Gandhi, Kharge

Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Thursday sought to put speculation of differences with the party to rest after a nearly 90-minute meeting with Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and senior leader Rahul Gandhi at Parliament House. Describing the talks as positive, Tharoor said the leadership was “moving together on the same page.”

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Tharoor said the discussion was constructive and addressed various concerns. The meeting came against the backdrop of reports of strained ties between the Thiruvananthapuram MP and the party leadership, particularly after he skipped several key Congress meetings, including strategy discussions ahead of the Kerala elections.

According to reports, Tharoor had sought time with Kharge and Gandhi to share his views and grievances, with the party indicating that efforts would be made to resolve issues ahead of the polls. His absence from recent meetings had fuelled speculation about internal discontent and possible distancing from party affairs.

The relationship between Tharoor and the Congress leadership had drawn attention following a series of remarks by him on national issues that were perceived by some party leaders as praise for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This had led to sharp reactions within the party and repeated denials by Tharoor of any intent to switch sides.

Tharoor also clarified that he was not seeking any new role and remained committed to the Congress, stating that he already enjoys the trust of his voters and has consistently campaigned for the party when asked. The meeting is being seen as an attempt to close ranks amid political churn and ahead of key electoral battles.