Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has drawn intense criticism from various political quarters following a social media post that took a jibe at Uttar Pradesh (UP) in the context of the recent NEET paper leak controversy. On Saturday night, June 22, Tharoor shared a post that humorously defined Uttar Pradesh as a state “where answers are known before the exam.” His comment was meant to highlight the recurring issue of exam paper leaks in the state but ended up sparking a significant political uproar.

The post, which Tharoor captioned as “shandaar” (fabulous) and tagged with “Pariksha pe charcha”—a reference to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative of interacting with students—was quickly met with criticism from leaders across the political spectrum. Union Minister Jitin Prasada expressed disappointment over the stereotypical portrayal of UP, condemning it as a deplorable insult to the state and its people. Former Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar and BJP National Spokesperson CR Kesavan echoed similar sentiments, accusing Tharoor of demeaning fellow Indians and repeatedly misrepresenting Indian cultures in a negative light.

Rajasthan Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also joined in criticizing Tharoor, highlighting his pattern of controversial remarks about various Indian states and cultures. The criticisms underscore a growing concern over political rhetoric that may deepen regional divides and perpetuate stereotypes rather than fostering unity and understanding among India’s diverse populations.

This incident not only reflects the sensitive nature of regional identities in India but also the impact of social media in amplifying political statements that can lead to widespread controversy. The backlash against Tharoor’s post demonstrates the fine line political figures must walk when commenting on sensitive issues publicly. It also brings into question the effectiveness of using humor in political discourse, especially when it touches on deeply ingrained societal issues like corruption and educational integrity.

The fallout from Tharoor’s post is likely to affect his standing within the political community and could influence how politicians engage with social media as a platform for political commentary. It remains to be seen how this incident will shape the discourse surrounding educational reforms and transparency in India.

  Indian Politics, NEET paper leak, political controversy, Shashi Tharoor, Uttar Pradesh