Shashi Tharoor faces backlash over Nepal flood comments

Indian Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has faced social media criticism for his description of the catastrophic flash floods in northern Nepal. While expressing concern for the victims, Tharoor used the phrase “blissfully unaware of the drama that had taken place in the hills” in a post on X, leading users to label the wording as insensitive and a “poor choice of words.”

The flash floods struck the Rasuwa district near the Tibet border, causing widespread destruction along the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli rivers. Experts suggest the disaster may have been caused by global warming or an earthquake in Tibet resulting in a glacier breaking off into the valley.

Reports indicate that at least 2,000 people are estimated to be missing. The flooding destroyed approximately 19 motorable bridges, washed away 40 km of the Betrawati–Rasuwagadhi highway, and heavily damaged eight operational hydropower projects. Tharoor noted that many victims include Indian tourists, including those participating in the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra, and expressed support for the Indian government’s pledge of relief assistance to Nepal.