New Delhi: The inclusion of Shashi Tharoor in a global parliamentary delegation to challenge Pakistan’s role in terrorism has ignited a significant internal debate within the Indian National Congress. The government’s request to Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge for suitable candidates highlighted Tharoor as a strong contender, given his experience at the UN and fluency in international diplomacy. However, resistance within the Congress party is brewing, with some leaders opposing his participation.
This internal conflict draws striking parallels to 1994, when Atal Bihari Vajpayee, then leader of the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), led India’s delegation to the UN Human Rights Commission in Geneva. Despite significant political differences between the BJP and the then-ruling Congress, Vajpayee’s appointment was a masterstroke by Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao.
Vajpayee successfully countered a Pakistan-backed resolution, a diplomatic achievement lauded as a testament to national unity. The delegation also included notable figures like Salman Khurshid and Farooq Abdullah, further demonstrating a bipartisan approach.
The current situation presents a critical test for the Congress party. Will it prioritise national interests and leverage Tharoor’s expertise, or allow internal politics to overshadow a critical diplomatic opportunity? The contrast between the unified approach in 1994 and the present internal division raises important questions about the current political landscape and the ability of India’s political parties to transcend partisan differences when national interests are at stake.
The debate also touches upon the broader issue of the role of opposition figures in representing India on the international stage, especially when their expertise could prove crucial. The historical context underscores the potential benefits of national unity during periods of international tension and diplomacy.