Rijiju Targets Tharoor Over Deep State Remarks

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has strongly criticized Congress MP Shashi Tharoor following remarks linking the BJP's governance to alleged interference by the "deep state" in the United States. Tharoor’s comments, made during an interaction, accused the ruling party of fostering conspiracy theories and attempting to divert public attention from domestic challenges by pointing fingers at international actors.

Rijiju responded sharply, suggesting Tharoor's remarks undermined India's sovereignty and reflected poorly on his understanding of global and domestic issues. The minister accused the Congress leader of prioritizing political rhetoric over national interest, emphasizing that India's challenges, including development and security, demand internal solutions rather than deflecting responsibility onto external entities.

Tharoor’s statements have ignited a broader debate on the BJP’s narrative regarding external influences in domestic matters. While BJP leaders often highlight foreign interference as part of their political discourse, Tharoor argued such narratives harm India's global standing and distract from addressing key governance challenges.

This exchange comes against the backdrop of mounting political tensions ahead of the general elections, with leaders from various parties stepping up their critiques of opponents. Rijiju’s remarks underscore the BJP's approach of countering opposition narratives by emphasizing national pride and dismissing what it perceives as irresponsible statements by rival politicians.