Tharoor-CPM 'secret' talks in Dubai? Discontent in Congress fuels shift rumours

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Unconfirmed reports say Congress leader Shashi Tharoor MP is all set to join the CPM. The reports that come in say that crucial talks will be held in Dubai in this regard. An industrialist close to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is taking the initiative for the talks.

Tharoor has so far not officially responded to it. Tharoor is displeased for neglecting him at the Mahapanchayat. The talks are held amidst this. Tharoor reached Dubai this afternoon. He will hold talks with the industrialist this evening. Sources close to Tharoor are not rejecting the news.

Congress’ election panel meet will be convened in the capital city on January 27. Tharoor is unlikely to attend it. This move from the CPM comes as efforts to woo Tharoor continue in the Congress.

In the Mahapanchayat, Lok Sabha opposition leader Rahul Gandhi started his speech by mentioning the names of the leaders present on the stage, but omitted Tharoor’s name. Tharoor was unhappy over it. However, Tharoor's name was not in the list he received ahead of the speech. Rahul Gandhi clarified that is why he did not mention his name.

However, Tharoor is of the view that he is not interested in a public discussion on the issue. Tharoor's absence was noticed at the meeting held in Delhi on Friday to review the election preparations.