Kangana Ranaut Seeks Damage Control After Mandi Flood Criticism
Kangana Ranaut's Meeting with Amit Shah
Munish Sood
MANDI: Facing increasing backlash regarding her response to the recent natural disaster in Mandi, BJP MP Kangana Ranaut met with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi on Thursday, July 24, 2025.
The meeting, which was officially labeled as a briefing on the flood situation in Mandi, is largely viewed as an effort to mitigate the damage following a series of political and public relations blunders.
Kangana's encounter with Amit Shah comes in the wake of devastating rains and cloudbursts that struck Himachal Pradesh's Mandi district, resulting in numerous fatalities and displacing thousands. During the initial days of the crisis, Kangana, who won her seat in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections with a significant majority, was notably absent from her constituency, leading to widespread criticism from both the public and her party members.
Former Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Jai Ram Thakur, who was actively involved in coordinating relief efforts, did not mention her by name but stated, “We are here for those who care.”
When Kangana finally spoke on the matter, her explanation only intensified the backlash. She claimed that Jai Ram Thakur had advised her to remain away until the roads were cleared. This justification did little to quell the outrage, with many accusing her of evading responsibility and shifting blame.
During a brief visit to Mandi, Kangana made a controversial remark that shocked both opposition leaders and local residents. She stated, “I have no cabinet post, no funds,” referring to her limited powers as an MP. This comment, intended as humor, was seen as insensitive given the ongoing tragedy.
Her remarks drew condemnation from the Congress party and various state ministers. Pratibha Singh, the Himachal Pradesh Congress president, labeled her comments as “insulting to the people of Mandi,” while PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh criticized her visit as merely a “photo-op.” Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi accused her of trivializing the disaster for media attention.
Even within the BJP, discontent has surfaced. Several senior party members, speaking anonymously, expressed concerns about her perceived political naivety and disconnect from her constituents. A party official remarked, “She has yet to grasp that being an MP involves more than just being in Parliament; her true challenge lies in serving the public, not just holding press conferences.”
With her political reputation at stake, the meeting with Amit Shah seems to be an attempt to regain control of the narrative. The BJP leadership, which selected Kangana for the Mandi seat over more experienced candidates, now faces the challenge of justifying their choice amid rising public scrutiny.
Sources indicate that the Centre may soon unveil a relief package for Himachal Pradesh, with Kangana potentially serving as a liaison between the affected communities and New Delhi. Whether this will help restore her credibility in Mandi remains uncertain.