Tharoor Silent on CPI-M Dubai Talk Rumours Amid Exit Buzz

January 26, 2026

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has declined to comment on widespread rumours suggesting he engaged in talks with leaders associated with the Communist Party of India (Marxist) during a recent visit to Dubai. The speculations have fuelled chatter about a possible exit from the Congress and political realignment, especially given reported tensions between Tharoor and his party’s leadership.

Tharoor was approached by journalists in Dubai regarding claims that he held meetings with CPI-M-linked individuals during his stay following the Kerala Literature Festival in Kozhikode. However, he refrained from commenting on the matter, saying it was not appropriate to respond while abroad.

Party Sources Deny talks with CPI-M

Leaders from the Left Democratic Front (LDF), including convener T P Ramakrishnan, have openly denied that any discussions took place between Tharoor and the CPI-M. They clarified that the LDF had not held any communication with Tharoor either in India or abroad. Ramakrishnan stressed that while the Left would be open to individuals sharing their political stance, no such interaction has occurred thus far.

In fact, Ramakrishnan reiterated that discussions could only be envisioned if Tharoor were to change his political orientation, clearly indicating that the CPI-M has made no approach so far.

Internal Dynamics Within Congress

The rumor mill gained traction amid reports of dissatisfaction and internal friction between Tharoor and some senior Congress leaders. Sources have highlighted that Tharoor had skipped a key party meeting convened by the Congress high command, opting instead to attend the Kerala Literature Festival contributing to speculation about his standing within the party.

Some observers suggest that perceived slights, such as allegedly not being sufficiently acknowledged by senior figures at a Congress event in Kochi, have added to narratives of internal discontent, though these remain unverified.

Party insiders have pushed back against the idea that Tharoor is planning to defect, affirming that there is no basis for such rumours and that he remains a committed Congress member who will address any concerns within the party framework.

Leadership Outreach and Mediation Efforts

In light of rising speculation, senior Congress figures including Priyanka Gandhi have reportedly engaged with Tharoor to pacify any unease and emphasize unity within the party. Congress sources point out that the leadership remains keen on addressing grievances internally rather than through public debate or political speculation.

Despite the buzz, there has been no official confirmation from Tharoor or his close aides regarding any view to switch allegiance or enter into discussions with political rivals such as the CPI-M.

Conclusion — Rumors vs. Reality

While rumours of Tharoor’s alleged discussions with CPI-M leaders in Dubai have captured media attention and social media chatter, both the Left and Congress leadership have denied any such talks. Tharoor’s own silence on the matter, coupled with firm denials from political figures on all sides, suggests that these reports remain unverified speculation rather than confirmed political developments.