Kangana Ranaut's Viral Interview Sparks Controversy Over Political Responsibilities

Kangana Ranaut's Comments Ignite Debate

Munish Sood
MANDI: A recent interview clip featuring Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut, who is serving as a first-time BJP MP from Mandi in Himachal Pradesh, has gone viral on social media, prompting significant public backlash and reigniting discussions about the suitability of celebrity candidates in serious political roles.

In the widely shared interview, Kangana candidly states that she is not finding joy in her role as a Member of Parliament. She mentions that prior to receiving her candidacy, the BJP assured her that the position would only demand 60 to 70 days of work annually, allowing her to pursue her acting career during the rest of the year.

“Now, I realize this job is quite demanding,” she remarks in the clip. “I was informed I would only need to work for a couple of months, but the reality is much more intense.”

This statement has attracted sharp criticism, especially as Himachal Pradesh faces severe challenges due to natural disasters. Many locals believe their elected representative should prioritize relief efforts instead of expressing dissatisfaction with the demands of political life.

The timing of the viral video has frustrated many residents, who feel their region is being overlooked during a critical time. Sunil Thakur, a local from Bamsan, expressed: “While the state grapples with disaster, people are in dire need of assistance. Kangana’s comments are not only surprising but raise questions about her priorities. Shouldn’t she be on the ground helping her constituents?”

Kangana's Views on Political Costs

Politics an expensive hobby for honest people, says actor

In the same interview, Kangana Ranaut elaborates on her perception of politics as an expensive endeavor for those who wish to remain honest. She shares that a significant portion of her parliamentary salary is consumed by expenses for cooks, drivers, and travel while visiting her extensive hill constituency.

“Traveling to any part of my constituency with even a few staff members costs a fortune,” she explains. “Every location is 300 to 400 km apart, making it a financially burdensome responsibility.”

Expectations of a Ministerial Role

Expectations of a ministerial role

Kangana also expressed her expectation of being appointed as a Union Minister, considering her stature and the nature of her electoral victory. “I’m a film producer, director, and a Padma Shri awardee. Winning from a challenging seat, I thought my contributions would be recognized with a ministerial position,” she states in the clip. “Many first-time MPs have received Cabinet roles, and I genuinely anticipated the same.”

This comment has led to further criticism, with many arguing that true leadership is about service rather than entitlement.

Concerns from Party Workers

Party workers speak out: ‘Star candidates damaging party’s image’

Within the BJP’s local ranks, there is growing discontent regarding the party’s reliance on celebrity candidates, often at the expense of dedicated grassroots workers. Prince Minhans, a long-time party supporter, remarked: “By promoting such stars, the BJP is gradually undermining the morale of its own workers. It won’t be long before it faces challenges similar to those of the Congress. Jai Shri Ram.”

This sentiment reflects broader concerns among party insiders who feel overshadowed by parachute candidates lacking local or political experience.

Public Demand for Accountability

Citizens demand accountability, not excuses

Social media reactions have also criticized Kangana Ranaut’s tone in the interview, with some users perceiving it as evasive or dismissive of her responsibilities. Gyan Barwal commented: “You are not a child. When someone is elected, they become the leader and representative of their constituency. It is their duty to fulfill the promises made during the election campaign.”

Previous Remarks Under Scrutiny

Previous remarks also under scrutiny

This is not the first instance where Kangana Ranaut’s comments as an MP have raised eyebrows. During earlier visits to disaster-affected areas in Banjar, she advised the public not to bring issues meant for the Chief Minister to her, stating that she lacks cabinet or administrative authority.

Her repeated emphasis on her limited powers and structural constraints has led many to question whether she fully understood the responsibilities associated with public office before entering politics.