Tharoor Defends Modi’s Use of Hindi Again, Congress Leadership Unhappy

New Delhi/Alappuzha: Congress Working Committee member Shashi Tharoor has once again expressed admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s consistent use of Hindi in official interactions. Tharoor reposted an old video on social media in which he defended Modi’s language preference, sparking fresh political debate. This came shortly after Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated that Indians who continue to rely heavily on English would soon have to feel ashamed.
In the video, Tharoor justified Modi's choice to speak in Hindi, stating that there is nothing wrong in using interpreters while engaging with world leaders. He pointed out that previous Prime Ministers preferred English, but Modi's commitment to Hindi reflects a personal choice that should be respected. According to Tharoor, even leaders of other nations rely on interpreters when needed, and India need not be any different. “When speaking with those who don’t understand our language, using an interpreter is enough,” he said.
Tharoor also dismissed claims that the United States had played any role in facilitating the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan. In a recent television interview, he stated that there was no communication between President Donald Trump and Indian officials regarding the ceasefire, and that India did not stop any military action under U.S. pressure. “Trump says many things. But he did not intervene, and no phone call took place,” Tharoor said.
Currently, Tharoor is on a visit to Russia, reportedly without prior approval from the Congress high command. Media reports indicate that during the visit, he may be engaged in diplomatic conversations on behalf of the Indian government, although Congress has not made an official statement confirming this.
Congress General Secretary K.C. Venugopal responded from Alappuzha, warning that action would be taken if Tharoor crosses the party’s internal boundaries. At the same time, he said the Congress allows freedom of expression within the organisation.
Tharoor's absence from the Nilambur by-election campaign has also drawn attention. Though he had expressed willingness to join the campaign, he was neither invited nor consulted by the state leadership.