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Shashi Tharoor's gunman, driver allegedly attacked in Kerala's Wandoor
As per the FIR filed based on complaint lodged by Tharoor's driver, the incident occurred at Chellithode near Thiruvali in Wandoor at around 7.30 pm on Friday.
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor's gunman and driver were allegedly attacked by a five-member group in poll-bound Kerala's Wandoor, police reportedly said on Saturday, adding that a person was taken into custody over the incident.
As per the FIR filed based on complaint lodged by Tharoor's driver Ratheesh KP, the incident occurred at Chellithode near Thiruvali in Wandoor at around 7.30 pm on Friday, reported PTI news agency.
According to Wandoor Police, a case has been registered, and one person is currently in custody.
Tharoor, taking to X, confirmed the incident and said he is well and was untouched in the attack.
“Truly touched by all the messages and calls expressing concern about the untoward incident last night when my security guard was attacked. He is well and I was untouched. Thank you to all friends and well-wishers. We carried on undaunted yesterday and concluded two more events as planned. And our ongoing programme remains unaffected,” Tharoor said.
What happened
Police officials said the incident took place when there was a roadblock at the Chelithode bridge as Tharoor was on his way to attend an election campaign event of Congress leader AP Anilkumar.
The accused, who were travelling in two vehicles, allegedly blocked the MP's vehicle, according to the details in the FIR.
When the gunman attempted to clear the obstruction, he and the driver were allegedly attacked, the FIR said.
Police said the road was narrow and the gunman had only asked the vehicle ahead to move faster to ensure smooth passage for the Thiruvananthapuram MP's convoy.
One person was taken into custody late Friday night, and the remaining accused were identified, police said, adding that they will be apprehended soon.
Shashi Tharoor has been actively taking part in Congress campaign for the Kerala assembly elections 2026, due on April 9. Counting of votes for the 140-seat Kerala assembly elections will take place on May 4, along with that of Assam, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and West Bengal.
Speaking at the election campaign of the UDF candidate in the Wandoor constituency of Malappuram district on Friday, Shashi Tharoor expressed confidence that the United Democratic Front (UDF) will get a good majority in Kerala and regain power in the state
Responding to a question on who would become the chief minister if the Congress-led UDF comes to power, Tharoor said it is not for him to decide.
He added that the Congress High Command will decide after considering the views of the elected MLAs.
