Dr Shashi Tharoor Visits Himachal Pradesh Amidst Political Turmoil and expressed hopes for the good show by Congress in HImachal and its INDI alliance in the Country as a whole... 

SHIMLA: Amid the ongoing political turmoil in Himachal Pradesh, Shashi Tharoor, the Congress MP from Kerala and renowned writer, has voiced his opinions during his recent tour of the state.

Tharoor visited Himachal saying it is a good time be here when the mercury is hitting 50 degree C in Delhi.

He toured the state  gearing up for the Lok Sabha polls on June 1, covering the four key constituencies of Kangra, Mandi, Shimla, and Hamirpur, as well as six assembly by-elections in Dharamshala, Sujanpur, Badsar, Kutlehar, Chintpurni, and Lahaul-Spiti.

When asked about the political instability in Himachal, Tharoor dismissed the idea that the state's Chief Minister and his close associates were to blame.

He argued, "In a national party like the Congress, there are bound to be differing opinions.

We have enough democracy within the party to allow for different ideas and visions. If people leave for other reasons, it has nothing to do with their ideological commitments to the party."

Tharoor  responding to recent speeches in rallies, said these have inflamed Hindu-Muslim tensions, calling them "shameful and cynical."

He reminisced, "When I was a child in India, such things wouldn't even be said behind closed doors.

Now, they're being declared publicly. Even the Prime Minister should appeal for respect and dignity."

Commenting on the alliance dynamics, particularly with the Aam Aadmi Party, Tharoor highlighted India's diversity. "Each state has its own political character and reality. The beauty of Indian democracy is in this diversity."

Regarding the upcoming elections, Tharoor expressed optimism about the Congress party's prospects. "We have a fighting chance in all four seats. In some areas, we're leading, and in others, we're in a strong contest. I'm hopeful for a good result."

On the subject of naming a Prime Minister candidate in advance, Tharoor pointed out, "In a parliamentary system, it's not necessary to name the Prime Minister ahead of time. Just like in 2004 when Dr. Manmohan Singh emerged as a strong leader post-elections, I believe we will see something similar in 2024."

Tharoor's visit and his remarks have added a significant dimension to the political landscape in Himachal Pradesh as it braces for the upcoming elections.