Shashi Tharoor Rejects Veer Savarkar Award, Igniting Political Firestorm

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has publicly declined the ‘Veer Savarkar Award’. He stated he would not accept the honor or attend its Delhi ceremony. The politician criticized organizers for announcing his name without his prior consent.

The event was scheduled for December 10. Tharoor learned of the award from media reports while in Kerala. He called the move irresponsible, creating an immediate controversy.

Organizers Claim Prior Notice, Suggest Political Fear

The organizing body, HRDS India, countered Tharoor’s claims. Secretary Aji Krishnan stated representatives met Tharoor at his residence. He said the MP was given a list of fellow awardees.

Krishnan suggested Tharoor may now be “scared” due to party pressure. This accusation adds a layer of political tension to the dispute. The conflicting narratives were reported by news agency ANI.

The controversy touches on deep historical and political divisions. Savarkar is a revered figure for many but contested by others.

Congress Party Stands Firm Against Savarkar Legacy

The incident quickly drew internal party commentary. Senior Congress leader K Muraleedharan spoke against any member accepting the award. He referenced Savarkar’s historical petition for release from British imprisonment.

Muraleedharan expressed confidence Tharoor would not accept. He said doing so would insult the Congress party. This underscores the award’s symbolic weight in Indian politics.

The affair highlights how historical figures remain potent in modern discourse. It also shows the tightrope public figures walk regarding symbolic gestures.

The rejection of the Veer Savarkar Award by Shashi Tharoor underscores enduring political divides. The event has become a flashpoint over historical narrative and political allegiance.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Why did Shashi Tharoor reject the Veer Savarkar Award?

Tharoor stated he never consented to receive the award. He said organizers acted irresponsibly by announcing his name without his prior agreement, leaving him unaware of the event’s details.

What did the award organizers claim?

Organizers from HRDS India claimed they informed Tharoor in advance. They said representatives met him and provided a list of other recipients, suggesting he declined later due to political pressure.

What is the Congress party’s position on Veer Savarkar?

Senior Congress leaders have opposed members accepting awards in Savarkar’s name. They view Savarkar’s historical actions, including a petition for mercy from the British, as contradictory to the party’s legacy.

How has this impacted political discourse?

The incident has reignited debate over historical interpretation and political symbolism. It demonstrates how awards can become platforms for broader ideological conflicts.

Where did Tharoor first clarify his position?

He first clarified his stance on social media platform X. He later reiterated his position to reporters outside Parliament in New Delhi, confirming he would not attend.