Congress Must Be Party of Hope, Not Resentment: Shashi Tharoor at AICC Session:

At the All India Congress Committee (AICC) session held on the banks of the Sabarmati River, senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor delivered a powerful address emphasizing the need for the party to be one of hope, inclusivity, and forward-looking leadership.

Echoing the tone of renewal, Tharoor said, “The Congress must be a party of hope, not of resentment; a party of positivity, not just negativism; a party of the future, not merely the past; and a party with a positive narrative, not just criticism.”

Reviving the Spirit of Unity from the Land of Gandhi and Patel

Tharoor framed the Congress’ message as a revival from Gujarat—the land of Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Patel. “We are here to send a message that the Congress is ready to face the challenges of tomorrow,” he said, calling the event a turning point for the party, particularly in a state where it has been out of power for nearly three decades.

Despite setbacks in state elections, Tharoor celebrated the Congress doubling its strength in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, calling it a sign of resurgence.

Criticizing BJP's Divisive Politics

In a direct critique of the ruling BJP, Tharoor accused it of trying to divide North and South India. “The idea of India is that you can be a good Gujarati, a good Muslim, and a good Indian all at once,” he declared, urging citizens to reject hate and echo the Congress slogan ‘Nafrat Chhodo, Bharat Jodo’.

He emphasized the need to protect the pluralism of India, where religion, caste, language, or region should not determine one's rights as an Indian citizen.

Constructive Nationalism and Social Justice

Backing the resolution moved at the AICC session, Tharoor said it frames a constructive vision of nationalism—centered around social justice, especially for OBCs, SCs, STs, and other marginalized groups.

“Our nationalism is not exclusionary. It is rooted in the well-being of all people,” he stated, reinforcing Congress’ commitment to constitutional values and equal rights for every Indian.

Focus on the Youth and Economic Fairness

Recognizing the central role of youth in India’s future, Tharoor said young voters want to know what the Congress can do for them today and tomorrow. “Our resolution talks about growth, but also about distributing the fruits of growth fairly, especially to those who have been left behind,” he said.

He reiterated that the Congress must remain the voice of the voiceless and that its revival will come through vision, service, and inclusive policies.

Saluting Grassroots Workers

Concluding his speech, Tharoor acknowledged the crucial role of party workers. “You are the lifeblood of the party. Without your hard work, this resolution would just be words,” he said, offering gratitude for their tireless efforts.