Mandi MP Kangana Ranaut faces backlash over remarks on Himachal rain disaster

MANDI: Actor-turned-politician Kangana Ranaut, who won her maiden election as a BJP MP from Mandi recently, has sparked a controversy with her recent comments regarding the disaster in Himachal Pradesh.

In an Instagram post, Kangana Ranaut said that she had spoken with local MLAs and the DCs of the affected areas, who had advised her against travelling to Himachal as of now due to the red and orange alerts issued for various locations.

In a subsequent media interview, she expressed her desire to meet the affected people and share their pain. “We were informed that the situation is not good and that more incidents of cloudbursts can occur,” she said. Consequently, she requested tourists to avoid travelling to Himachal Pradesh. However, her statements have been met with sharp criticism on social media.

“Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi are visiting Wayanad, risking their lives to help those affected. Look at how ‘Kattar Hindu Sherni’ Kangana is scared by an advisory,” commented one user. Jitesh tweeted: “No wonder you rode a fake horse while playing Rani Laxmi Bai’s character.”

Wahan Jain wrote: “As an elected representative of Mandi, you should be there. If not, you should find a way to help those in need and guide them as a true leader would. Sitting where you are now puts you in the same light as Rahul.”

Nitesh Bhatt remarked: “Name the road that is blocked. All HRTC buses are running smoothly. You are an MP, manage a chopper and help the affected. If you don’t have the money, should I book a ticket for you? Many Volvo buses are running on the same route.”

Puneet Viz stated: “Look, people of Mandi, she doesn’t want to be with you in your hour of need, giving lame excuses. At least direct your office staff to do the needful for the people of Mandi.” Rajat Aggarwal suggested: “As an MP, you should stand hand-in-hand in relief work. The alert is for ordinary people. You are an authority. Do something for the people who voted for you.”

A few residents of Mandi, such as Ashok Negi, also expressed disappointment: “MP Kangana ji, you are the people’s MP. You should share the people’s pain, even at the risk of your own life. If you can’t come, ask the Government of India to release the funds from the previous disaster.” Another resident, Jawahar, wrote: “You have a lot of money, why don’t you provide free food and medical support to people? Everyone leaves their home to earn… understand this.”

Some have offered constructive advice. Ankush wrote: “Ma’am, now you are the representative of the people of Mandi. There are multiple ways to reach Mandi. Please go and help people.

If someone advises you not to come, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t help! I am a Himachali and know how to get there, and so do you! Take a car, don’t always rely on air service! When you claim that a person who consumes drugs can go to Wayanad, remember you are a daughter of Devbhoomi. Please go and help!”

Dharmaveer advised: “Kangana ji, listen carefully. Officials told you not to go to the flooded areas, but think a little. Officials advised you not to go because they know that if the MP leaves, they will have to work day and night in the field. Don’t listen to them; stay among the people in this hour of grief.”