I would have thought the Congress would look upon Shashi Tharoor as a prized asset, one of its most valuable members and a source of enormous pride. But, instead, it seems to consider him a renegade, perhaps a rebel or, at least, a rascal. The leadership is not merely cold and unwelcoming to him, it seems they just don’t like him.

Is this jealousy? Could it be insecurity? Or might it be rivalry? Shashi, I have no doubt, threatens many Congressmen at many levels. Those who lack his sophistication and oratory could be envious. Those who are uncertain of their own success or, even, qualifications would, no doubt, feel insecure. Whilst those who believe they are as good as he is, as talented and as popular, may well see him as a rival. All three would want him cut to size, reduced in standing if not actually turfed out of the party.

Now, you could, perhaps, say this is inevitable in politics or, at least, in the devious and, often, deceptive way we practise it. It’s possible bright young things in other parties are treated by........

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