The Aryavarth Express
Agency(Himachal Pradesh): Actor Kangana Ranaut, making her political debut as a BJP candidate from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, emphasized that every woman deserves respect and dignity, responding to controversial remarks made by Congress leaders on social media. The dispute began after comments disparaging Ranaut and her constituency, Mandi, were shared by Congress leaders Supriya Shrinate and H S Ahir, leading to widespread criticism and a call for apologies.
Ranaut expressed her dismay, especially regarding the disrespectful comments about Mandi, a place she holds dear and is often referred to as “Chhota Kashi.” She highlighted the need for respect across professions, stating that whether a woman is a teacher, actress, journalist, politician, or sex worker, they all deserve dignity.
The controversy has prompted reactions from various quarters, including BJP leaders and other supporters of Ranaut, who criticized the Congress for the derogatory language used. Bansuri Swaraj, Amit Malviya, and former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur have voiced their concerns, with Thakur hinting at legal action against the remarks.
Congress spokesperson Shrinate defended herself, claiming that multiple people have access to her social media accounts and that the post in question was promptly deleted. However, this explanation has not quelled the backlash, with BJP leaders and supporters continuing to demand an apology from the Congress leadership.
Union Minister Smriti Irani and BJP’s Chandigarh MP Kirron Kher, among others, have condemned the remarks, underscoring the issue of women’s dignity in public discourse. The National Commission for Women has also intervened, seeking action from the Election Commission against the Congress leaders involved.
Ranaut used this moment to reflect on her varied career and the roles she has portrayed, advocating for a broader understanding and respect for women’s lives and challenges. This incident has sparked a significant discussion on the dignity of women and the language used in political discourse, with both sides of the political spectrum weighing in on the matter.
