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Shashi Tharoor defends Rahul Gandhi after Ramachandra Guha questions his PM credentials, citing lack of experience, Tharoor says leadership is not limited to prior executive roles.
Shashi Tharoor backed Rahul Gandhi amid criticism from Ramachandra Guha. (Image: PTI/File)
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Saturday defended Rahul Gandhi against criticism from historian and author Ramachandra Guha, who recently questioned the Leader of Opposition’s qualifications and preparedness for the office of Prime Minister.
The debate was sparked by Guha’s remarks in an interview, where he argued that Gandhi lacks the administrative and foreign policy experience required to handle complex national and international challenges. He questioned what credentials Gandhi brings to the role beyond his family background and personal integrity.
Tharoor Cites Obama On Leadership Without Prior Experience
Responding on X, Tharoor dismissed the criticism as “a bit much” and pointed to examples of leaders who rose to the highest offices without extensive executive experience.
Come on, @Ram_Guhathis is a bit much. What experience did Barack Obama, a first-term Senator from Illinois, have in world affairs when he became President of the most powerful country on earth, while it was caught up in multiple global issues? For that matter, how much… https://t.co/Tyz2iisNXA— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) June 6, 2026
“Come on, Ramachandra Guha, this is a bit much. What experience did Barack Obama, a first-term Senator from Illinois, have in world affairs when he became President of the most powerful country on earth, while it was caught up in multiple global issues? For that matter, how much international exposure did the CM of Gujarat have to manage India’s International relationships?” he wrote.
Tharoor argued that leadership cannot be judged solely based on prior government experience. He noted that Gandhi has led a major national political party for more than a decade and has built relationships with political figures across the world.
‘Leaders Rely On Advisers While Making Decisions’
The Congress leader also stressed that heads of government do not function in isolation and rely on advisers and institutions while making decisions.
“No President or PM handles crises alone; that’s why he heads a government! I think it’s time to put this overblown controversy to rest,” he said.
Speaking to news outlet The Wire earlier this week, Guha had questioned Gandhi’s readiness for the country’s top executive post.
“What has he done to show that, if he (Rahul Gandhi) becomes Prime Minister, he can handle a grave and complex situation with equanimity and wisdom?” he asked.
“So I think it matters to many people what qualifies him except for his personal decency, that only two things that qualify. One is negative: his distinct entitlement, the fact that his mother, his father, grandmother, and great-grandfather were prime ministers,” the historian argued.
Guha also suggested that the Congress had leaders with stronger administrative credentials who could be projected for the Prime Minister’s post.
About the Author
Manisha Roy is a Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com’s general desk. She comes with an experience of over 5 years in media industry. She covers politics and other hard news. She can be contacted at Manish…Read More
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