Congress Accuses Government of Dishonesty Over Foreign Delegation Names
The Congress party has accused the Indian government of dishonesty regarding the names of MPs proposed for a foreign delegation aimed at addressing terrorism from Pakistan. They firmly stated they would not change their designated MPs, expressing surprise at the inclusion of Shashi Tharoor in the official announcement. Jairam Ramesh, Congress General Secretary, criticized the government's handling of the situation, emphasizing the importance of party leadership approval for delegation members. The party remains steadfast in its original nominations, highlighting the need for transparency and integrity in political representation. This ongoing political discourse raises questions about the government's approach to international representation and its implications for party dynamics.
| May 17, 2025, 15:49 IST
Congress Stands Firm on Proposed Delegation Names
The Congress party has accused the government of dishonesty regarding its stance on terrorism originating from Pakistan. On Saturday, they stated that they would not change the names of their four designated MPs for the proposed foreign delegations aimed at clarifying India's position. This statement comes after the government included Congress leader Shashi Tharoor among the seven MPs expected to represent India on international platforms, where they will inform global leaders about Operation Sindoor.
Jairam Ramesh, Congress General Secretary and Rajya Sabha MP, expressed surprise upon seeing a different name, Shashi Tharoor, announced in an official press release, despite the party having submitted four names for the delegation. According to reports, Ramesh stated, "We were asked for names and expected those we provided to be included. However, we were taken aback when we saw the PIB press release. I cannot say what will happen now. Asking for four names, providing four, and then announcing another name is dishonest on the government's part."
Without directly naming Tharoor, Ramesh emphasized the significant difference between being in Congress and being a part of it. He accused the government of not only lacking honesty but also engaging in mischief to distract from its failing discourse. He noted that it has been a good democratic tradition for MPs included in official delegations to seek permission from their party leadership.
Ramesh also suggested that it is possible that Union Minister Kiren Rijiju spoke with Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge after the government's decision was made. He mentioned he was willing to give Rijiju the benefit of the doubt. However, he reiterated that the way the situation was handled was dishonest, and Congress would not alter the names they proposed. Ramesh added, "Yesterday (Tuesday) at 12:30 PM, Rahul Ji wrote a letter to Kiren Rijiju stating: 'Dear Mr. Kiren Rijiju, I am writing this letter based on the conversation between Kharge Ji and myself regarding the delegation abroad. After consulting with Kharge Ji, I am sending you four names: Anand Sharma, Gaurav Gogoi, Raja Barar, and Nasir Hussain.'"