Kangana Ranaut Faces Backlash Over Drug Abuse Comments in Punjab

Controversy Erupts Over Kangana's Remarks

Chandigarh/Shimla: Actor-turned-politician and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut has ignited controversy once again, this time due to her comments regarding drug abuse in Punjab. This follows an incident over a year ago when she was slapped by a CISF woman constable at Chandigarh airport for her remarks about Punjab farmers.

During a media event in Delhi, Kangana supported a statement made by Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla, which has led to significant backlash from various political leaders in Punjab. They accuse her of damaging the reputations of both Himachal Pradesh and Punjab.

Punjab Minister Criticizes Kangana's Comments

Punjab's Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema responded sharply to Kangana's statements, labeling them as 'irresponsible and uninformed.' He challenged her to address drug issues in BJP-led states like Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh, urging her to move past political biases.

Cheema stated, 'Before criticizing Punjab, Kangana should advocate for a drug abuse survey in states governed by her party. Punjab has made strides, while drugs are trafficked into the country through Gujarat. It's common knowledge. Kangana seems to lack a grasp of societal issues and should be more cautious with her words.'

Political Leaders Join the Criticism

Many Congress and opposition figures have echoed Cheema's sentiments, accusing Kangana of leveraging her platform for political gain instead of fostering constructive dialogue.

Kangana's Statement Raises Concerns

Kangana, who represents Mandi in the Lok Sabha, remarked that Himachal is at risk of becoming like 'those Punjab villages' where only widows and elderly women remain due to widespread drug addiction. She attributed the rising addiction among Himachali youth to trafficking routes from Pakistan through Punjab.

She expressed concern, stating, 'Himachal’s youth are succumbing to addiction. Children are selling their parents' belongings and isolating themselves, which is worse than death.' Her comments came after the Himachal Governor warned that the state's location makes it susceptible to international drug trafficking.

Previous Incident Still Fresh

This latest controversy follows an incident in June 2024, where a CISF constable, Kulwinder Kaur, allegedly slapped Kangana at Chandigarh airport. Kaur was reportedly upset by Kangana's remarks about women involved in the farmers' protest and was later transferred and suspended. A video of her defending her actions went viral, stating, 'My mother was one of those women farmers Kangana mocked.'

With tensions escalating, Kangana's remarks are quickly becoming a significant political issue in both Himachal and Punjab, with critics accusing her of exacerbating divisions rather than promoting unity.