Shashi Tharoor Praises PM Modi as India’s Prime Asset on the Global Stage

A Rare Bipartisan Recognition

In a striking departure from typical political divides, Congress Member of Parliament Shashi Tharoor has publicly praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling his energy, dynamism, and willingness to engage a “prime asset” for India’s standing on the world stage. Writing in The Hindu, Tharoor emphasized that these qualities are crucial for India’s diplomatic success and should be supported strongly by all political factions.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor met PM Narendra Modi after returning from the 5-nation tour on Operation Sindoor, including the US. | India today

Tharoor’s commendation comes in the wake of India’s bold military response following the terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, an operation known as Operation Sindoor. The mission was not only a tactical military strike but also a significant diplomatic maneuver designed to influence global opinion and demonstrate India’s resolve against terrorism.

Operation Sindoor: Beyond Military Action

Operation Sindoor marked a pivotal moment in India’s recent security strategy. The strikes targeted terror camps across the Line of Control with precision and restraint, signaling India’s resolve while avoiding escalation into full-scale war. Tharoor described the operation as a “moment of national resolve and effective communication,” underscoring that the military action was paired with a carefully crafted diplomatic campaign.

The naming of the operation carried deep cultural and emotional symbolism. "Sindoor," the traditional vermilion mark worn by married Hindu women, was referenced to evoke the pain and injustice suffered by the widows of Pahalgam, where militants had targeted Hindu women by forcibly removing their sindoor. Tharoor called this symbolic framing “brilliant,” as it helped India connect with the international community on a human level beyond geopolitical strategy.

A Diplomatic Offensive Across Continents

Following the operation, India dispatched seven bipartisan delegations abroad to engage with key international partners. Tharoor led one such delegation, visiting countries including the United States, Panama, Guyana, Colombia, and Brazil. Throughout these visits, he recounted how Indian diplomats and politicians presented a united front, engaging in persistent dialogue to clarify India’s position.

In Washington, even as a Pakistani delegation sought to present a counter-narrative, U.S. officials notably echoed India’s concerns about terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, underscoring bipartisan support for India’s security concerns. This diplomatic engagement was significant in shaping global opinion.

One of the most notable diplomatic successes was Colombia’s decision to withdraw a condolence statement regarding civilian casualties in Pakistan and instead affirm India’s sovereign right to self-defense. Tharoor attributed this shift to consistent and fact-based advocacy by Indian representatives.

Navigating Political Differences at Home

While Tharoor’s praise of Prime Minister Modi and the government’s handling of foreign affairs is rare coming from an opposition leader, it has also sparked criticism within his own party. The Congress Party has maintained a critical stance on Modiji’s foreign policy, and Tharoor’s supportive remarks have highlighted existing fissures within the party.

Despite the backlash, Tharoor defended his position, emphasizing that his comments stem from a commitment to India’s national interest rather than any political allegiance. He stressed the importance of unity across party lines and communities when confronting terrorism, especially during sensitive electoral campaigns such as the Nilambur by-poll.

Measured Strength and Global Impact

Tharoor further explained that Operation Sindoor was a “measured” response, deliberately avoiding any reckless escalation. He highlighted how the balanced nature of the strikes helped India send a firm message of deterrence without provoking war. Interestingly, Tharoor hinted that the operation’s signal was not only directed at Pakistan but also noted that other regional powers, including China, might have taken note of India’s resolve.

The operation and its aftermath exemplify how India has combined hard military resolve with soft diplomatic power. Tharoor praised the government for framing the narrative effectively, ensuring India’s actions were understood within and beyond its borders as both just and proportionate.

Conclusion: A Call for National Unity in Diplomacy

Shashi Tharoor’s praise for Prime Minister Modi as a “prime asset” on the global stage reflects a nuanced acknowledgment of the current government’s diplomatic strengths. His remarks underscore the importance of unity and strategic communication in advancing India’s position internationally. While internal political differences remain, Tharoor’s balanced approach illustrates how cooperation across party lines can enhance India’s ability to respond effectively to challenges.

Operation Sindoor stands as a testament to India’s evolving security doctrine—where military precision is complemented by smart diplomacy, emotional resonance, and cultural symbolism. As India navigates complex regional dynamics, the collaboration of diverse political voices behind a shared vision of national interest will remain vital.

(Sources: LiveMint, India Today, NDTV)