Delhi: BJP MP and Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut has stirred significant controversy with her recent remarks advocating for the reinstatement of the repealed farm laws. Her comments have not only drawn criticism from opposition parties and farmers’ unions but have also prompted a response from within her own party, which distanced itself from her statements. In light of the backlash, Ranaut has since issued an apology, acknowledging that she should be mindful of her dual role as both an artist and a political figure.
Ranaut’s statement suggesting that continued farmer protests could lead to situations akin to those in Bangladesh has particularly fueled the debate. The BJP has also denied any endorsement of her views, emphasizing that she lacks the authority to comment on government policies.
In a series of controversial statements, Ranaut previously criticized the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) for not approving her film Emergency, in which she portrays Indira Gandhi. Following this setback, she referred to the Censor Board as a “useless department,” eliciting further criticism.
Additionally, Ranaut has sparked outrage by claiming that India’s independence began in 2014, asserting that true freedom was only achieved with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration, labeling the 1947 independence as mere “alms.” This statement has drawn ire from politicians, historians, and academics alike.
Kangana has a history of making contentious remarks, especially during the West Bengal Assembly elections, which led to her Twitter account being suspended for violating platform rules regarding hate speech. Her earlier controversial posts, particularly regarding the farmers’ protests from 2020-2021, included comparisons of protesters to terrorists, which ignited a war of words with Punjabi actor Diljit Dosanjh.
Moreover, her comments surrounding the death of actor Sushant Singh Rajput included serious allegations against writer Javed Akhtar, who has since filed a defamation lawsuit against her, claiming damage to his reputation. This case is still under investigation.
In 2020, Ranaut attracted attention by comparing Mumbai to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir while criticizing the Shiv Sena-led Maharashtra government, leading to the demolition of part of her bungalow by municipal authorities for illegal construction.
Most recently, her claim that “almost 99 percent of people in Bollywood are drug-free” has also met with significant backlash from the Hindi film industry, further highlighting the polarized responses to her outspoken views.
