A political storm has erupted in Kerala as senior Congress leader K. Muraleedharan publicly clashed with MP Shashi Tharoor over national security remarks. Muraleedharan declared Tharoor is “no longer one of us” and banned him from attending any party events in Thiruvananthapuram unless he revises his position.

Tharoor’s stance supportive of the Centre’s Operation Sindoor and critical of the party's hesitation on security has sparked criticism within Congress. Muraleedharan accused him of acting against the state leadership and undermining collective cohesion.

Tharoor, known for his nation-first ethos, has maintained that putting national interest above partisan politics should be the norm. At a Kochi event, he emphasized that cooperation with the government on security matters reflects mature statesmanship, not disloyalty. Yet, Muraleedharan countered that such actions necessitate discussions within the party before presentation in public forums.

This public conflict is important for two reasons. First, it highlights the ongoing tension between the Center's aggressive security policy and the internal unity of the Congress. Second, this has come to light on the eve of the monsoon session, which makes it clear that the process of deep self -consciousness about national security is going on within the party.

Political strategists believe that this is not just a state level fight. This reflects the ongoing struggle within the Congress - should the party fearlessly oppose the government's actions or adopt a balanced and subtle approach on issues like defense and security? Tharoor represents a faction advocating for principle-based alignment, while Muraleedharan champions organizational loyalty.

This result matters a lot for the voters of Kerala and Congress supporters across the country. Will the party be tolerated internal differences in the name of national security credibility? Or will it further strict organizational discipline at the price of diversity of ideas?

As the dispute is becoming public, the Congress' ability that it maintains a balance between loyal and leadership not only his image, but also its preparation to deal with sensitive issues like national security in a turmoil, but also in a turmoil.