Congress Leader’s “Slap Kangana” Remark Stirs Controversy; She Responds

In a statement that has ignited a political firestorm and drawn widespread condemnation, a senior Congress leader from Tamil Nadu has suggested that actor and newly elected BJP MP, Kangana Ranaut, “should be slapped” if she visits the state. The controversial remark, made by former Tamil Nadu Congress president K.S. Alagiri, came in response to what he claimed were complaints from farmers over Ranaut’s past comments.

The incident, which has dominated headlines and social media discussions, is a reference to a previous event where a CISF constable, Kulwinder Kaur, slapped Ranaut at Chandigarh airport. The constable claimed her actions were a reaction to the actress’s alleged disrespectful remarks about women participating in the farmers’ protests.

Alagiri, in his address, doubled down on the comparison, telling a group of agriculturists that they should do “the same thing as the police officer at the airport” if Ranaut were to visit their area. He justified his inflammatory comment by citing a past statement by Ranaut, where she allegedly said that protesting women farmers were being paid a paltry sum of ₹100. Alagiri expressed shock and dismay that a sitting Member of Parliament would “criticise agricultural ladies” who hail from rural India.

The Congress leader’s remarks have been met with a swift and sharp reaction from political rivals and a section of the public who have decried the statement as an incitement to violence. Critics argue that such language is unbecoming of a political leader and further deteriorates the quality of public discourse.

Kangana Ranaut’s Calm but Firm Reaction

Kangana Ranaut, known for her outspoken nature, responded to the controversy with a measured yet firm stance. Dismissing the threat, she stated that no one can stop her from traveling anywhere in India. She highlighted her deep-rooted connection with Tamil Nadu, referencing her role as former Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa in the acclaimed film Thalaivii.

“We can go wherever we want. No one can stop anyone,” Ranaut told reporters in Himachal Pradesh. She further added, “If there are people who hate me, there are more people who love me. People in Tamil Nadu have always showered love on me. One person saying something won’t make any difference.”

Ranaut’s reaction underscored a strategic shift, choosing to focus on her perceived support base rather than engaging in a direct verbal spat. She also noted that even opposition MPs from Tamil Nadu have recently referred to her by her character’s name, “Thalaivii,” which she took as a sign of affection and acceptance.

This latest political row highlights the increasingly confrontational tone of political rhetoric, where personal attacks and calls for violence are becoming more common. It also serves as a reminder of the previous airport incident, which itself was a fallout of the intense political polarization surrounding the farmers’ protests. As the debate continues to unfold, the focus remains on the need for political leaders to exercise restraint and promote a more civil and constructive dialogue. Sources