Mon Jul 14 12:12:27 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the text and a rewritten version as a news article, focusing on the core conflict and avoiding the preamble text:

**Summary:**

A feud persists within the Indian National Congress as veteran leader P.J. Kurien doubles down on his criticism of the Youth Congress, citing their lack of grassroots presence and perceived ineffectiveness. He also accuses MP Shashi Tharoor of opportunism for praising Modi. Youth Congress leaders have strongly objected to Kurien’s remarks, while senior leaders offer mixed reactions, ranging from condemnation to understanding. The conflict highlights internal tensions within the party concerning the role and relevance of its youth wing and ideological consistency.

**News Article:**

**Congress Infighting Deepens as Veteran Leader Kurien Reasserts Criticism of Youth Wing**

**PATHANAMTHITTA, INDIA – July 14, 2025** – The internal strife within the Indian National Congress shows no sign of abating as veteran leader P.J. Kurien continues to publicly criticize the party’s Youth Congress. In a statement to the media on Monday, Kurien reiterated his concerns about the Youth Congress’s lack of engagement at the grassroots level, stating, “I don’t see any young leaders even in my own constituency.” He praised Chandy Oommen MLA’s door-to-door campaign in Nilambur, highlighting the need for better presence at the grassroots level.

Kurien clarified that his remarks were for the overall functioning of the Youth Congress across the State. “Every panchayat should have an active Youth Congress committee. What I said was for the betterment of the party, so I fail to understand what the problem is,” he said.

Kurien also took aim at Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, accusing him of “opportunism” for allegedly praising Prime Minister Modi while the Congress is in opposition. “Tharoor’s stance doesn’t reflect what is expected of a Congressman,” Kurien stated.

The remarks have ignited a firestorm within the party. Youth Congress leaders have voiced their strong disapproval on social media. Former KPCC president Mullappally Ramachandran has criticized Kurien’s assessment, while veteran leader Ramesh Chennithala offered a more tempered response, suggesting Kurien’s comments stemmed from genuine concern for the party’s future.

The ongoing dispute underscores deep-seated tensions within the Congress regarding the role and effectiveness of its youth wing, as well as differing perspectives on ideological purity and political strategy. The party leadership now faces the challenge of mediating this growing divide and fostering greater unity as it navigates a complex political landscape.

Read More