NEW DELHI: Shashi Tharoor MP has shared a photo with BJP leader and Union Minister Piyush Goyal amid speculations about his rift with the Congress party. Tharoor shared a picture of the two standing with British Secretary of State for Trade Jonathan Reynolds on social media.

The picture with Jonathan Reynolds, posted on social media after discussions on the India-UK trade agreement, intensified speculations about Tharoor's stand within the Congress. The three are seen smiling in the picture. ‘Good to exchange words with Jonathan Reynolds, Britain’s Secretary of State for Business and Trade, in the company of his Indian counterpart, Commerce & Industry Minister @PiyushGoyal. The long-stalled FTA negotiations have been revived, which is most welcome,’ Tharoor shared the picture and wrote on social media.

Tharoor’s post is amid reports of his displeasure with the congress, particularly after he asked Rahul Gandhi to clearly define his role in the party. He shared a picture with Piyush Goyal after this. Tharoor's interview to the Indian Express also stoked a controversy. The Congress in Kerala is facing a leadership vacuum. If it does not work hard, it may face a third setback. He also asked the party to utilize his skills.

Meantime, the CPM, which fielded Dr P Sarin, after he left Congress during Palakkad by-election, as its candidate and taking K V Thomas before the Thrikkakara by-election, is now eyeing Tharoor. The CPM knows that Tharoor is a sharp weapon against the UDF and the Congress in the assembly elections. There is also a concern on Tharoor joining the saffron camp. The Congress does not think that Tharoor can directly win over the ranks. But if the CPM intensifies attacks making Tharoor a weapon, they can gain the trust of the voters and weaken the strength of the Congress.