BJP MP and actor Kangana Ranaut on Monday found herself at the centre of a political storm after suggesting that the farmers’ protests could have led to a Bangladesh-like crisis if not for the government’s intervention.
Her statements, shared on her account X, were met with severe criticism from across the political spectrum and farmers’ organizations. The Mandi MP’s remarks have landed the ruling party in a spot ahead of the crucial assembly elections in Haryana.
Opposition leaders in Haryana, sensing an opportunity to capitalise on the controversy have used Kangana’s remarks to attack the BJP. Former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda criticised the comments, stating, “Haryana and Punjab farmers feed the entire country.
“Such remarks against farmers are unacceptable.” Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala weighed in, questioning whether Kangana’s statements were part of a larger BJP election strategy.
“The question is, did Kangana make these vile accusations against farmers as part of the BJP’s election strategy? Were these her own words, or did someone else write them for her? If not, then why are the Prime Minister, the Chief Minister of Haryana, and all BJP MPs and MLAs silent on this issue?” Surjewala posted on X.
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Haryana President Sushil Gupta also slammed Kangana’s statement, calling it “ironical” and criticized the BJP for merely issuing a statement without taking more substantial action. He asserted, “The BJP cannot blink away this controversy by simply issuing a statement.”
Kangana’s remarks have not only embarrassed BJP leaders in Haryana but have also drawn criticism from within her own party. Punjab BJP leader Harjit Singh Grewal distanced the party from her comments, stating that they were her personal views and did not represent the party’s stance.