MANDI: Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi BJP MP and Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut has sparked a fresh political storm with a controversial statement about Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti.
Her remarks have drawn sharp criticism not only from opposition leaders but also from senior members of her own party in Punjab. This has intensified the already heated political climate in the region.
Punjab BJP leader Harjit Singh Grewal led the charge, harshly criticising Kangana for her comments. He equated her views with those of Nathuram Godse, the assassin of Mahatma Gandhi. Grewal condemned Kangana’s remarks, stating, “Kangana’s thoughts resemble those of Nathuram Godse. She claims to admire Lal Bahadur Shastri, but Shastri was Gandhi’s staunchest disciple. It makes no sense to honour the disciple while insulting the guru.”
Grewal further expressed disappointment in the people of Mandi for electing her as their representative, urging Kangana to avoid making such divisive statements. He added, “Mahatma Gandhi’s contribution to India’s independence is undeniable. I hope she gains the wisdom to understand that.”
Verka calls for sedition case
Congress leader Raj Kumar Verka went a step further, demanding that a sedition case be filed against Kangana. He accused her of making anti-national remarks, saying, “On Gandhi Jayanti, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi is paying homage to Mahatma Gandhi, Kangana is attacking his legacy. This is intolerable. The BJP should take a clear stand on this issue and take action against her.”
Verka expressed frustration at the BJP’s apparent inaction, emphasising the gravity of the situation: “It is appalling that the BJP is neither filing a case against her nor taking any other action. This kind of comment cannot be tolerated, especially on a day dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi.”
Union Minister Bittu says such remarks shouldn’t be heard
When asked about Kangana’s comments, Union Minister of State Ravneet Singh Bittu appeared visibly shocked. Referring to Gandhi’s philosophy, he responded, “Bapu once said that if you hear something bad, close your ears. This is how we should deal with such remarks.
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Kangana had posted a controversial message on her social media, writing, “The country does not have fathers, but sons. Blessed are these sons of Mother India,” alongside a photo of former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri. While her post seemed to honour Shastri, it was widely perceived as a dig at Mahatma Gandhi, further escalating the controversy.
BJP leaders distance themselves
Senior BJP leader Manoranjan Kalia also criticised Kangana, advising her to focus on her film career instead of getting involved in politics. “Kangana Ranaut has a habit of making controversial statements. It would be better for her to stick to acting, as politics is not her cup of tea,” Kalia remarked.
The controversy surrounding Kangana’s remarks comes at a time when the BJP is facing increasing pressure to clarify its stance on her statements, with leaders from both within and outside the party expressing concern over the impact on Gandhi’s legacy.
