The Opposition intensified its critique of BJP MP Kangana Ranaut on August 27, 2024, following her controversial remarks about the farmers’ protests. The Himachal Pradesh Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution, backed by Congress, condemning her statements, while the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) organized protests throughout Haryana.
Kangana, a Member of Parliament from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, shared a clip of an interview where she claimed India faced a “Bangladesh-like situation” without strong leadership during the farmers’ protests. She controversially suggested that bodies were hanging and rapes occurred during the demonstrations against the now-repealed farm laws, further alleging foreign involvement from countries like China and the US.
Her comments sparked significant debate within the Himachal Assembly, with the opposition expressing outrage and demanding accountability from the BJP. AAP officials asserted that Kangana’s remarks reflect the BJP’s dismissive attitude toward farmers, prompting demonstrations in cities such as Jind, Yamunanagar, and Panchkula.
Shiv Sena MP Priyanka Chaturvedi also criticized Kangana, insisting on an apology and questioning the BJP’s lack of regret for her statements.
In response to the uproar, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan stated that Kangana’s comments insulted the entire farming community, urging BJP members to clarify their position on the issue. Leader of the Opposition Jai Ram Thakur defended Kangana by suggesting her remarks did not represent the party’s official stance.
On August 26, the BJP expressed disapproval of Kangana’s comments, emphasizing that she is not authorized to speak on party policy matters. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu supported the resolution condemning her remarks, which resonated with the assembly members.
Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi called for legal action against Kangana, asserting her statements could incite unrest. Congress leaders condemned her comments as a grave insult to farmers, with PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh labeling her allegations as irrational and lacking substance.
The controversy surrounding Kangana’s comments adds to her previous contentious statements about farmers, with Haryana AAP President Sushil Gupta labeling her latest remarks as “shameful” and reflective of the BJP’s antagonistic attitude towards farmers.
Former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav described her remarks as a calculated diversion, designed to deflect blame from the BJP’s troubles ahead of the October 1 elections in Haryana.
As this tumultuous dialogue unfolds, thousands of farmers who previously protested against the now-repealed farm laws remain a critical force, underscoring the persistent tension between agricultural communities and political leadership in India.
