MPs job is to decide who rules India, not to repair roads; Shashi Tharoor

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Shashi Tharoor listed the limitations of being an MP while speaking at the Vision 2030 conclave organized by Kerala Kaumudi. He said that, as an MP, he faces many limitations, especially considering that separate parties control state administration and central administration. Tharoor emphasized that MPs have constraints in addressing certain issues, as responsibilities such as road repairs and pension distribution are within the purview of the state government. Convincing people of these limitations is a significant challenge.

MPs work in Delhi. MPs are elected to decide who will rule India. Tharoor stressed the importance of representing Thiruvananthapuram's interests in Parliament and advocating for the region's needs at the national level.

Tharoor also discussed the budgetary constraints faced by MPs, noting that they receive approximately 5 crores per year to allocate across seven constituencies. Only 25 per cent of this allocation is designated for SC and ST projects, leaving limited funds for other developmental initiatives. In comparison, MLAs receive a larger appropriation amount, further illustrating the financial constraints MPs operate under.

Despite these challenges, Tharoor highlighted some of his achievements in fostering development in Thiruvananthapuram. He mentioned attracting educational and technological institutions, such as Oracle and Nissan, to the region during his tenure. Additionally, he noted infrastructure projects like the completion of a long-awaited bypass and efforts to address crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ockhi cyclone. Tharoor acknowledged the necessity of cooperation between the central and state governments to facilitate development initiatives and expressed his commitment to continue advocating for the progress of Thiruvananthapuram.