Kharge’s remark came amid a heated discussion about when the Congress or its opposition partners should stage a rally on Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary. The Working Committee met on Tuesday, with the agenda heavily focused on rally dates.
Tharoor, a four‑time MP from Thiruvananthapuram, has long been a polarising figure in the party, often voicing criticisms that have at times aligned with the ruling BJP. His 2023 op‑ed on dynastic politics and his participation in the Operation Sindoor delegation exposed Pakistan’s role in terrorism, actions that clashed with party orthodoxy.
During the meeting, Tharoor proposed October 2 as the rally date, hoping to leverage the symbolic weight of Gandhi’s legacy. Kharge, after a brief pause, leaned over Tharoor and said, “You must attend it. Don’t just end up writing articles in newspapers that we read later.”
Tharoor did not speak in response, but nodded, a tacit acceptance of the directive. The gesture was interpreted as a sign that the party leadership is tightening its messaging strategy, insisting on front‑line participation rather than mere commentary.
The decision comes as the opposition prepares to launch a coordinated campaign around the anniversary, with the Congress seeking to consolidate its narrative on national unity and anti‑corruption. The rally is slated to take place in New Delhi, drawing on Gandhi’s ideals to galvanise voters ahead of the forthcoming general elections.
Ahead of the event, party officials plan to release a joint statement and hold a press conference, with Kharge expected to outline the policy platform. The rally is scheduled for 9 a.m. on October 2, and media outlets are already lining up to cover the proceedings.
By agreeing to attend, Tharoor signals a shift toward active participation, potentially altering the internal dynamics of the Congress as it positions itself against the BJP’s growing influence.