PM Modi Commissions Vizhinjam Port in Kerala, Sparks Political Ripples with Shashi Tharoor Presence

Thiruvananthapuram, May 2, 2025 – In a politically charged yet historic moment, Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially commissioned the Vizhinjam International Seaport in Kerala on Friday, marking a significant leap for India’s maritime infrastructure. However, the event took an unexpected political turn with Modi’s sharp remarks aimed at the Congress, triggered by the presence of senior Congress leader and Thiruvananthapuram MP, Shashi Tharoor.

A Jibe That Stirred Political Waters

Addressing the audience at the grand commissioning ceremony, PM Modi acknowledged the presence of Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, but not without stirring controversy. “I would like to say to our Chief Minister, you are a big and strong pillar of the INDI Alliance. Shashi Tharoor is also sitting here, and I would like to say that today’s event will take away the sleep of many,” Modi quipped, leaving the audience in mixed reactions.

The remark, seemingly directed at the Congress leadership, was not fully translated during the speech. Modi, catching the lapse, added sharply, “The message has gone across for whom it was meant.”

Tharoor’s Growing Rift with Congress Leadership

Tharoor, known for his articulate diplomacy and independent views, is increasingly facing criticism from within his own party. Several Congress leaders have accused him of being soft on the BJP, especially in the wake of the recent Pahalgam terror attack and his praise for India’s diplomatic handling of the Russia-Ukraine war under Modi’s leadership.

Despite the mounting tensions, Tharoor remained composed. A day before the event, he shared on X (formerly Twitter):

“Despite delays at the dysfunctional Delhi airport, managed to land in Thiruvananthapuram in time to receive Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his arrival in my constituency. Looking forward to his officially commissioning Vizhinjam port, a project I have been proud to have been involved with since its inception.”

Vizhinjam Port: A Game Changer for India

The Vizhinjam International Seaport, developed by the Adani Group, is expected to position India as a global player in maritime trade. With its natural deep-sea advantage, the port is strategically located close to international shipping lanes, potentially reducing dependency on transshipment hubs like Colombo and Singapore.

Modi lauded the port as a symbol of India’s progress and global ambition. “This port will not just benefit Kerala, but the entire nation. It will create jobs, enhance trade, and strengthen our maritime network,” he said.

Opposition Boycott and Political Faultlines

Interestingly, VD Satheesan, the Leader of the Opposition in the Kerala Assembly, boycotted the ceremony, citing a late invitation and alleging that the government had failed to credit the previous UDF regime for its foundational work on the project.
“The agreement with Adani Group and the initial groundwork was laid by the UDF government under Oommen Chandy. Ignoring that is not just political immaturity, it’s historical injustice,” said Satheesan.

A Port of Progress Amid Political Storm

While the commissioning of the Vizhinjam Port is a milestone moment for Kerala and India’s shipping sector, the undercurrents of political rivalry were impossible to ignore. Modi’s calculated comments, Tharoor’s dignified presence, and the opposition boycott painted a vivid picture of India’s complex political landscape.

As India sets sail towards becoming a maritime superpower, it seems the ripples of Vizhinjam will be felt far beyond its shores—perhaps even in the corridors of Delhi.