Paromita Das
New Delhi: Shashi Tharoor, a veteran Congress leader and former Minister of State for External Affairs, has long been known for his eloquent critiques of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. However, his recent remarks praising the Modi-led government’s ‘Vaccine Maitri’ initiative and Bharat’s diplomatic stance in global affairs have raised eyebrows across political circles. Tharoor’s newfound appreciation for certain aspects of the Modi government marks a subtle but significant shift in his political rhetoric.
Tharoor’s Earlier Stance on PM Modi
Shashi Tharoor has been a vocal critic of Prime Minister Modi since the latter assumed office in 2014. In 2018, he openly criticized the government’s policies, accusing Modi of failing to deliver on key promises. Tharoor pointed out contradictions in Modi’s governance, particularly regarding rising communal tensions, economic mismanagement, and erosion of democratic institutions. His critiques often extended to Bharat’s foreign policy, which he deemed ineffective in several instances.
In September 2019, Tharoor clarified that his intention was not to praise Modi but to understand why voters continued to support him. He emphasized that the opposition must analyze Modi’s appeal to the electorate to formulate an effective counter-strategy. Despite this acknowledgment, his position remained firmly against the BJP-led government’s broader policies.
Tharoor’s Praise for Vaccine Maitri: A Surprising Turn?
In March 2025, Tharoor penned an article in The Week, lauding the Modi government’s Vaccine Maitri initiative. He described it as one of Bharat’s most significant accomplishments, particularly during the grim period of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tharoor acknowledged that Bharat’s vaccine diplomacy, which provided vaccines to over 100 countries, was a testament to Bharat’s leadership in global health initiatives. He highlighted how this initiative aligned with Bharat’s Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam philosophy (the world is one family), reinforcing Bharat’s soft power on the international stage.
His remarks marked a significant departure from his usual criticisms. Tharoor’s recognition of Vaccine Maitri demonstrated an appreciation for Bharat’s role as a global benefactor, even as wealthier nations hoarded vaccines while developing countries struggled.
Acknowledging Bharat’s Balanced Diplomatic Approach
Tharoor’s recent shift in tone extends beyond vaccine diplomacy. He also acknowledged the effectiveness of Bharat’s neutral stance in the Russia-Ukraine war. Initially skeptical, he admitted during the Raisina Dialogue that he had been proven wrong, stating that he had “egg on his face” for his earlier criticism of Modi’s position.
Bharat’s policy of maintaining strategic autonomy while engaging with both Russia and the West allowed the nation to emerge as a credible negotiator. Tharoor’s admission highlighted the growing consensus that Bharat’s diplomatic approach under Modi had yielded tangible benefits, enabling stronger ties with global superpowers.
Does This Mark a Change in Tharoor’s Political Position?
Despite his recent praise for the Modi government’s initiatives, Tharoor maintains that he remains a staunch opponent of the ruling party’s broader ideological and governance framework. His appreciation for Vaccine Maitri and Bharat’s diplomatic stance does not indicate a political realignment but rather an acknowledgment of specific policy successes.
This shift, however, signals a more nuanced approach to political discourse—one that differentiates governance achievements from ideological battles. Unlike many in the opposition who reject all BJP policies outright, Tharoor’s balanced perspective sets a precedent for constructive political engagement.
A More Pragmatic Tharoor?
Shashi Tharoor’s evolving perspective suggests a maturing political discourse where opposition leaders recognize achievements beyond partisan lines. His acknowledgment of Vaccine Maitri and Bharat’s diplomatic strategies reflects a pragmatic approach that values national interest over rigid party allegiances.
Whether this marks a long-term shift in Tharoor’s stance or a strategic attempt to present himself as a more balanced political figure remains to be seen. However, one thing is clear—his nuanced take on governance is refreshing in an era of polarized politics. In a democracy, such constructive criticism and appreciation of policy successes, regardless of party lines, should be encouraged for the betterment of the nation as a whole.
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