Tharoor on Emergency: Erosion of Freedom Revisited
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New Delhi: Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has shared a survey on his social media platform X (formerly Twitter) which projects him as the preferred choice for the Chief Minister’s post in Kerala. However, the survey has drawn criticism from within the party, with a Congress leader dismissing it as “cooked up.”
The survey, conducted by a little-known organization called ‘Jan Ki Baat’, claimed that 48% of respondents favoured Tharoor as the next CM, significantly ahead of other potential candidates. The results have sparked a debate within the Kerala Congress unit, especially with assembly elections due in 2026.
Tharoor posted the survey results on X, stating, “Fascinating results from @jankibaat! What do you think?” The post quickly gained traction, prompting a flurry of reactions from party members and political observers.
Though,the survey’s methodology and credibility have come under question. KPCC (kerala Pradesh Congress Commitee) vice-president V.P. Sreedharan,speaking to News18,labelled the survey as “cooked up” and questioned its authenticity. He stated that such surveys are often designed to create artificial narratives and should not be taken seriously.”These kinds of surveys are often floated with a specific agenda. We don’t know who funded this survey or what their motives are. The Kerala Congress is united and will decide on the CM candidate through a democratic process,” Sreedharan said.
Jan Ki Baat’s Methodology and Past Controversies
Jan Ki Baat has previously conducted surveys that have been met with skepticism. While the organization claims to employ robust methodologies, critics point to inconsistencies in their sample sizes and data collection techniques.
The organization’s website states they use a combination of telephone surveys, door-to-door interviews, and social media polling. However, details regarding the specific methodology used for the Kerala CM survey are scarce.
Kerala Congress Dynamics and CM Aspirants
The Congress party in Kerala has several prominent leaders vying for the Chief Minister’s position. Besides Tharoor, other potential candidates include Leader of the Opposition V.D. Satheesan and former state Congress president Mullappally Ramachandran.
the party is currently focusing on strengthening its organizational structure and preparing for the upcoming local body elections. The issue of the CM candidate is likely to be a contentious one,and the party leadership will have to navigate the various aspirations and interests within the state unit.
The timing of the survey, ahead of crucial elections, has raised eyebrows. It is being seen by some as an attempt by tharoor to position himself as a frontrunner for the top post. Tharoor, a former Union Minister and a popular figure nationally, has been increasingly active in Kerala politics since being elected as an MP from thiruvananthapuram in 2019.
What’s Next for Kerala Congress?
As the 2026 assembly elections draw closer, the Congress party in Kerala will need to address the issue of leadership and present a united front. The controversy surrounding the survey highlights the internal dynamics and potential challenges the party faces.
For now, the party leadership is likely to downplay the significance of the survey and focus on strengthening its grassroots organization. The ultimate decision on the CM candidate will be a crucial one, and it will likely be made closer to the elections, taking into account various factors, including electoral prospects and party unity.
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