"My friend & fellow traveler called me mischievous for saying that we seem to be finally travelling in the same direction," Panda quipped in his post on X . The image depicts both leaders smiling, suggesting camaraderie.
Tharoor, known for his eloquence and quick wit, promptly responded, clarifying the context of their encounter. "Fellow traveller only to Bhubaneswar! I am addressing the Kalinga LitFest tomorrow morning. And coming right back," he replied, emphasizing the literary nature of his visit and dispelling any political connotations.
This exchange comes at a time when Tharoor's actions and statements have been under intense scrutiny, both within his party and in the broader political arena. His recent commendations of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's foreign policy, particularly concerning the Russia-Ukraine conflict, have raised eyebrows among Congress ranks. Tharoor lauded Modi's balanced approach, acknowledging the maintenance of positive relations with both nations during turbulent times. Such praise, especially directed at a political adversary, is uncommon in India's polarized environment and has led to internal murmurs within the Congress.
Further fueling speculation, Tharoor's recent interview on a podcast added layers to the ongoing narrative. He remarked, "If the party wants to utilize my strengths, I’ll be there. If not, I have other options," alluding to his prolific writing and global speaking engagements. While he later downplayed the controversy, stating he was puzzled by the uproar, the comments have been interpreted by some as a veiled indication of dissatisfaction.
The selfie with Panda is not Tharoor's first instance of crossing party lines socially. His interactions with leaders from opposing factions have often been in the spotlight, sometimes overshadowing his political endeavors. These engagements, while fostering bipartisan dialogue, occasionally place him at odds with party hardliners who view such camaraderie with suspicion.
Political analysts are divided on the implications of this episode. Some perceive Panda's jest as a light-hearted moment between two seasoned politicians, reflecting the personal bonds that often transcend party affiliations. Others, however, interpret it as a subtle nudge at the perceived ideological shifts or internal conflicts within the Congress, especially given Tharoor's recent statements.
The Congress party, for its part, has maintained a measured silence on the matter. While internal debates about Tharoor's role and statements continue, there has been no official reprimand or acknowledgment of the selfie incident. This restraint suggests a cautious approach, possibly to avoid giving undue attention to what could be dismissed as a trivial episode.
On social media platforms, the selfie has garnered mixed reactions. Supporters of both leaders praised the display of camaraderie, viewing it as a testament to the possibility of civil discourse amidst political differences. Critics, however, questioned the timing and propriety of the post, especially given the sensitive political climate and the ongoing debates about party loyalty and ideological purity.
Tharoor's participation in the Kalinga Literary Festival, the stated purpose of his trip to Bhubaneswar, proceeded as scheduled. In his address, he focused on the importance of literature in bridging societal divides and fostering understanding, themes that resonate with the current political discourse. He refrained from commenting on the selfie episode or the ensuing speculations, keeping the focus on the festival's literary agenda.
Baijayant Panda, formerly associated with the Biju Janata Dal before joining the BJP, is known for his articulate presence both in Parliament and on digital platforms. His rapport with leaders across the political spectrum is well-documented, and his social media posts often reflect a blend of political commentary and personal anecdotes. The 'same direction' remark, while ostensibly about their shared flight path, has been dissected for deeper political meanings, a testament to the charged political atmosphere.