Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has received an invitation to the state dinner hosted for Russian President Vladimir Putin at Rashtrapati Bhavan, while Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and senior leader Rahul Gandhi have not been included on the guest list. The development has sparked political discussion ahead of the high-profile event. The Tharoor invited Putin dinner update has gained attention due to the contrasting invitations within the party’s top leadership.
The state dinner, hosted by President Droupadi Murmu, is part of Putin’s official engagements during his India visit. Such events typically include senior ministers, diplomats, business leaders, and selected political representatives. Tharoor, who previously served as Minister of State for External Affairs and has long-standing diplomatic experience, was among those invited. His inclusion has drawn interest given his expertise in foreign affairs and his past connections with global institutions.
Read More: Manipur Polo Tournament Begins at Historic Kangjeibung
Congress insiders noted that invitations to state dinners often reflect protocol decisions made by the Ministry of External Affairs in coordination with Rashtrapati Bhavan. However, the absence of Kharge and Rahul Gandhi has generated speculation. Several political observers pointed out that as Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Kharge has historically been invited to major diplomatic events. Therefore, his exclusion has surprised many in political circles.
Invitation to Tharoor Sparks Political Curiosity
Shashi Tharoor’s invitation carries significance because of his diplomatic background and active engagement in discussions on foreign policy. He has served on parliamentary committees related to external affairs and remains one of the Congress party’s most prominent voices on global issues. As a result, the Tharoor invited Putin dinner development appears aligned with his professional experience.
Political commentators suggested that Tharoor’s presence at the event may help facilitate constructive political representation. They also noted that Tharoor often maintains bipartisan respect during diplomatic occasions. His inclusion, therefore, aligns with India’s broader tradition of inviting experienced parliamentarians to state functions regardless of political rivalry.
Meanwhile, party workers and supporters expressed mixed views about the contrasting invitations. Some emphasised that such decisions lie entirely with government protocol, while others questioned the absence of the Congress president and one of the country’s most recognisable opposition leaders.
Kharge, Rahul Gandhi Not Invited: Party Reacts
Congress leaders responded cautiously, stating that invitations are the government’s prerogative. However, some members privately expressed disappointment, suggesting that excluding top opposition figures weakens the spirit of democratic representation at major state events.
Congress spokespersons noted that the party would not officially comment on individual invitations unless necessary. Still, the development has led to internal discussions and reactions across social media. Supporters of Kharge and Rahul Gandhi argued that their exclusion sends an avoidable political message. They added that major diplomatic occasions benefit from wider political participation.
Despite this, senior Congress leaders clarified that the party remains focused on pressing national issues rather than ceremonial invitations. They affirmed that India’s international relations should remain above partisan conflicts.
Diplomatic Event Gains Spotlight Amid Political Reactions
The dinner event itself is expected to highlight India’s strategic partnership with Russia. Discussions between Modi and Putin are centred on defence cooperation, energy ties, trade expansion, and regional security. Such high-level visits often draw political interest, especially when major opposition figures are excluded or selectively invited.
Government officials maintained that the guest list is determined based on specific criteria, including protocol, diplomatic relevance, and institutional roles. They suggested that speculation should not overshadow the significance of the visit.
The Tharoor invited Putin dinner news, however, continues to trend because it highlights the evolving dynamics within the political space. As experts noted, state dinners often carry symbolic value beyond formal protocol. Invitations can signal recognition, relevance, or political recalibration within broader national contexts.
As preparations continue at Rashtrapati Bhavan, the focus remains on India’s diplomatic engagement with Russia. Yet the contrasting invitations to Congress leaders have added an unexpected political angle to a key international event. Whether the issue leads to broader debate or fades after the dinner remains to be seen.
Read More: 5 Ayurvedic Winter Recipes for Digestion and Warmth