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Kharge Takes Gentle Jab at Tharoor Over Congress Event Participation

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge made a lighthearted remark during a party meeting, suggesting that colleague Shashi Tharoor should focus on attending events rather than merely proposing them. The comment came after Tharoor suggested organizing a Congress event on October 2, marking Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary.

LSN India · 29 September 2026

At a Congress Working Committee meeting, party president Mallikarjun Kharge responded with gentle humor when Shashi Tharoor proposed hosting an event on October 2 to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary. Kharge's quip appeared to be an affectionate reminder about the importance of active participation in party functions.

Tharoor, a senior Congress leader and prolific writer, has long been known for articulating party positions through articles and public statements. Kharge's comment, delivered in a lighthearted manner, suggested a distinction between proposing ideas and ensuring their successful execution through direct involvement.

The Congress Working Committee meeting served as a platform for discussing the party's calendar of events and commemorative programs. October 2 holds particular significance for the Indian National Congress, given the ideological connection to Gandhi's principles of non-violence and social justice that form part of the party's foundational ideology.

The interaction between the two leaders highlighted the informal dynamics within the Congress high command, where senior figures occasionally engage in public banter while discussing party matters. Such exchanges are not uncommon in Indian political circles, where personal camaraderie often coexists with procedural discussions at party meetings.