May 29, 2025

Modi’s Absence from U.S. Raises Questions as Opposition Leader Shashi Tharoor Leads Indian Delegation

A recent Indian delegation to the United States has raised eyebrows, particularly because it was led not by Prime Minister Narendra Modi or External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, but by senior Congress leader and former diplomat Dr. Shashi Tharoor. This move has sparked debate in Indian political circles, with many questioning why Modi and Jaishankar stayed in India while delegating such an important international responsibility to a political opponent.

A Low-Key Briefing and Tharoor’s Distance from the UN

The visit included a closed-door briefing held at the Indian Consulate in the U.S., attended by a limited audience—sparking criticism for its lack of transparency and inclusivity. Interestingly, although Dr. Tharoor is widely respected for his long tenure at the United Nations and international diplomatic experience, he has notably kept a distance from the UN during this visit, leading to further speculation about the intent and effectiveness of the mission.

Modi's Strategic Silence After 138 Foreign Visits

Since taking office in 2014, Prime Minister Modi has made a record number of foreign trips—138 in total—including 9 visits to the United States, 5 to Russia, 6 to France, and 5 to China. Yet, during a period of heightened regional tension following a four-day conflict between India and Pakistan, Modi chose to remain in India. Instead of leading diplomatic outreach himself, he has turned his focus to delivering aggressive domestic speeches and holding rallies in various Indian states.

Shift in Diplomatic Strategy?

Observers point out that Modi has long touted his close relationships with world leaders such as former U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, during the recent conflict, no major international leader came forward to support Modi’s stance. This silence has raised doubts about the effectiveness of his personal diplomacy.

In response, the Indian government has formed a multi-party delegation—led by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Congress Party leader Dr. Shashi Tharoor—to represent India’s position abroad. This approach has led critics to question whether Modi is attempting to share the burden of foreign diplomacy or distance himself from potential backlash.

Tharoor’s Role: Strategic or Symbolic?

Dr. Shashi Tharoor, with his extensive experience at the United Nations, is undeniably a credible representative on the global stage. However, his presence in a key diplomatic mission while being a vocal opposition leader suggests a complex political maneuver—perhaps aimed at demonstrating national unity, or perhaps as a strategic shift in how India presents its narrative to the world.

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