Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor article critiquing dynasticism in Indian politics has received praise and a warning from a BJP leader. Shehzad Poonawalla, a former Congress leader and current BJP spokesperson, said that Tharoor has become “khatron ke khiladi,” which means one who plays with danger.
He seemed to refer to the Gandhis when he said he was praying for Tharoor because “the first family is very vengeful.”
BJP Leader warns Shashi Tharoor
The controversy centers on Tharoor’s article in Project Syndicate titled, ‘Indian Politics Are a Family Business.’ It discusses dynasty-led political parties in India, such as the Congress, Samajwadi Party, DMK, Trinamool Congress, and the National Conference.
“Dynastic politics pose a serious threat to Indian democracy. When political power depends on lineage instead of skill, dedication, or community involvement, governance suffers. Drawing from a smaller talent pool is never a good idea, but it is especially concerning when candidates are mainly qualified by their surname. Members of political dynasties often face fewer challenges than ordinary people, making them less able to meet their constituents’ needs effectively.
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Shashi Tharoor argues that it is “high time India traded dynasty for merit.” He believes this requires fundamental changes, such as setting legally mandated term limits and enforcing meaningful internal party elections. He also calls for efforts to educate and empower voters to select leaders based on skill. As long as Indian politics remain a family business, the true promise of democracy — “government of the people, by the people, for the people” — cannot fully realized, he wrote.
Poonawalla called the article a “very insightful piece.” He added, “I wonder what repercussions will follow against Dr. Tharoor for speaking so candidly. Dr. Tharoor already attacked for calling out Nepo kid Rahul Gandhi on Op Sindoor ‘surrender narrative.'”
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