Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Mar 22: A cryptic social media post by senior BJP leader and Kendrapara MP Baijayant Jay Panda has ignited fresh speculation over Congress leader Shashi Tharoor’s alleged growing proximity to the ruling party.

Sharing a photo of himself with Tharoor on a Bhubaneswar-bound flight, Panda wrote on his X handle: “My friend & fellow traveler called me mischievous for saying that we seem to be finally travelling in the same direction.”

Tharoor, however, was quick to clarify, responding: “Fellow traveler only to Bhubaneswar! I am addressing the Kalinga LitFest tomorrow morning. And coming right back!!”

Despite Tharoor’s explanation, Panda’s post set social media abuzz with speculation about the veteran Congress leader’s political inclinations.

Tharoor’s recent praise of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s diplomatic stance on global affairs has added fuel to the rumors. During the Raisina Dialogue, he admitted he had initially misjudged India’s neutral position on the Russia-Ukraine war.

"I am still wiping the egg off my face because I was one of those who criticized India's position back in February 2022. Three years later, it turns out I was wrong. India now has a Prime Minister who can hug both the president of Ukraine and the president of Russia within two weeks and still be accepted in both places. That means India is in a position to make a difference to lasting peace," he remarked.

Earlier in February, Tharoor also stirred controversy within the Congress after he lauded the outcome of PM Modi’s US visit, calling it "very good."

With ongoing rifts between Tharoor and the Congress leadership, particularly in Kerala, rumors of him considering a switch to the BJP continue to gain traction.

Meanwhile, Tharoor was in Bhubaneswar to attend the 11th edition of the Kalinga Literary Festival, which began on Friday, featuring literary minds from across Southeast Asia and around 25 languages.