“Shashi Tharoor Says ‘1971 and 2025 Are Not the Same’ Amid Congress’ Indira Gandhi Campaign”
Shashi Tharoor expressed that the 1971 victory is a “great achievement” that fills him with pride as an Indian. He added, “Indira Gandhiji rewrote the map of the subcontinent.”
Shashi Tharoor Responds to Congress Campaign, Highlights Differences Between 1971 and 2025 Circumstances!
Shashi Tharoor, senior Congress leader, commented on the party’s campaign that showcases Indira Gandhi’s leadership during the Bangladesh liberation war, especially after the recent ceasefire agreement with Pakistan. Tharoor emphasized that the circumstances of 1971 and 2025 are not the same, pointing out key differences in the situation at present.
In an interview with news agency ANI, Tharoor discussed the importance of peace in today’s context. He stated that while India had reached a stage where tensions were escalating unnecessarily, peace is crucial. He noted that, unlike in 1971, today’s situation requires a more cautious approach. “The people of India deserve peace. We have suffered a lot, just ask the people of Poonch,” he said, referencing the lives lost in recent conflicts.
Tharoor clarified that while he wasn’t suggesting avoiding necessary wars, the current situation didn’t warrant prolonged conflict. He acknowledged the government’s need to pursue terrorists responsible for the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 innocent lives, assuring that justice would be pursued, though it may take time.
When discussing the 1971 victory, Tharoor proudly referred to it as a “great achievement” and credited Indira Gandhi for rewriting the map of the subcontinent. However, he stressed that the circumstances of today, especially with Pakistan’s military capabilities, were different. The Bangladesh liberation war, he said, was a moral cause aimed at securing freedom, whereas today’s situation calls for a more strategic approach without escalating the conflict unnecessarily.
Tharoor also pointed out that while Congress shared images of Indira Gandhi’s leadership in the 1971 war to counter the ceasefire news, the differences in the nature of the conflict today must be acknowledged. He stated that the objective during the 1971 war was clear — liberating Bangladesh — while the current conflict risked becoming a prolonged war with no clear end.
While Congress leaders reflected on Indira Gandhi’s leadership, the BJP responded by questioning what action the UPA government took after the 26/11 terror attacks. Additionally, Jairam Ramesh of Congress called for an all-party meeting to discuss the ceasefire and raised concerns about potential third-party mediation in the Kashmir issue.
In conclusion, Tharoor and Congress believe that recalling Indira Gandhi’s courageous leadership in 1971 is natural but emphasized that today’s circumstances require a different approach.
