“Only Indian Foreign Policy, Not BJP or Congress”: Shashi Tharoor at We The Women UK 2025

London: “There is no such thing as BJP foreign policy or Congress foreign policy—only Indian foreign policy and Indian national interest,” asserted senior Congress MP and former diplomat Dr. Shashi Tharoor, striking a statesmanlike tone at the inaugural UK edition of “We The Women 2025”, hosted by journalist Barkha Dutt.

In a powerful closing session that drew loud applause, Tharoor emphasised that India’s global diplomacy must remain above partisan politics. “There are things I may be willing to say against the government at home, but I will not say them abroad. We fight our battles at home. Abroad, we represent one India,” he added, reinforcing his view of constructive opposition rooted in national unity.

Responding to a question about being perceived as India’s most credible international voice during Operation Sindoor, Tharoor humbly declined the title, saying, “When Pahalgam happened, all political parties stood behind the government. When Sindoor happened, we all stood behind our armed forces.”

The event, celebrating the voices and leadership of women and change-makers, also featured author and Rajya Sabha MP Sudha Murty, who brought clarity and context to the recent debate on work hours, following her husband N.R. Narayana Murthy’s 70-hour work week suggestion.

“I work more than 90 hours a week — I write, I research, I stay committed to multiple responsibilities. There is no shortcut to success,” she said. “Mr. Murthy worked 90 to 100 hours a week and travelled 200 days a year. Building a company like Infosys doesn’t happen with a magic wand — it happens with relentless dedication.”

The UK edition of “We The Women” marks a significant step in taking India’s most vibrant festival of ideas and conversations global, with leading voices like Tharoor and Murty setting the tone for substance over soundbite.