New Delhi: Former Indian minister Manishankar Aiyar has triggered fresh political controversy after launching a sharp public attack on several senior leaders of the Indian National Congress, predicting that the party will fail to win the upcoming Kerala assembly elections due to internal divisions.
In an interview with NDTV, Aiyar criticized Congress leaders Shashi Tharoor, Pawan Khera, and Jairam Ramesh, accusing the party of deep factionalism and infighting.
“Congress Leaders Hate Each Other More Than Communists”
Commenting on the political situation in Kerala, Aiyar said that while he personally wishes for a Congress victory, he does not believe the party stands a realistic chance.
“Congress leaders hate each other more than they hate the communists,” Aiyar said, adding that internal rivalries have weakened the party’s electoral prospects.
He further claimed that Pinarayi Vijayan, leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), is likely to continue as chief minister—remarks that earlier prompted the Congress leadership to distance itself from Aiyar, stating that he no longer represents the party.
Personal Attacks on Congress Leaders
Aiyar also targeted Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera, calling him a “puppet” and questioning his authority within the party. He alleged that Khera has been leveling accusations against him for the past two years and claimed the Congress has failed to project alternative voices at the national level.
Turning his attention to Shashi Tharoor, Aiyar suggested that the senior MP harbors ambitions of becoming India’s next foreign minister. He also criticized party general secretary Jairam Ramesh, remarking that Ramesh is focused on safeguarding his position within the party hierarchy.
Congress Faces Internal Turmoil Ahead of Elections
Aiyar’s remarks have added to the Congress party’s internal challenges at a time when it is attempting to consolidate its leadership and campaign strategy ahead of key state elections. While the party has officially disassociated itself from Aiyar’s comments, his statements have intensified political debate and renewed focus on divisions within the opposition ranks.
The controversy comes at a sensitive moment for the Congress in Kerala, where it faces a strong challenge from the ruling Left Democratic Front led by Pinarayi Vijayan.