Is BJP MP Kangna Ranaut Facing Local Anger After Visiting Disaster-Hit Areas?
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Synopsis
BJP MP Kangna Ranaut's recent visit to disaster-hit areas in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, has sparked local outrage and criticism from her party. Despite her efforts to provide relief, her prior absence raises questions about her commitment to constituents in times of crisis.
Key Takeaways
- Kangana Ranaut's visit was met with local anger due to her earlier absence.
- She offered relief materials and support to affected families.
- The state is experiencing severe monsoon devastation with significant fatalities.
- Criticism from within her party highlights the importance of timely political action.
- Kangana acknowledged her limitations in providing immediate disaster relief.
Mandi (Himachal Pradesh), July 7 (NationPress) Following backlash from her party regarding her absence in the wake of devastating floods, BJP Member of Parliament for Mandi, Kangana Ranaut, made her way to the disaster-stricken regions of her Lok Sabha constituency on Monday. However, her visit was met with local discontent.
She explored Pangliyur village within the Nachan Assembly segment, where nine individuals from two families were tragically swept away during the floods on July 1, with five still unaccounted for.
“In this challenging time, I reached out to the affected families, sharing in their sorrow. May God grant everyone the resilience to endure this hardship. We have also distributed relief supplies and will initiate developmental projects to cater to the villagers’ needs,” the actress-turned-politician stated on X.
The state of Himachal Pradesh is currently grappling with severe monsoon destruction, reporting 78 confirmed fatalities and extensive infrastructure damage from June 20 to July 6. Within Mandi district alone, fourteen lives have been lost, while search operations continue for 31 missing individuals.
Her visit to the flood-impacted areas in the Karsog assembly segment came after she was criticized for her delayed response to the calamity. She evaluated the damage caused by cloudbursts in the regions of Sanarli, Kutti, and Megli. “I will relay detailed information regarding the natural disaster to Prime Minister Narendra Modi-ji, ensuring every possible support is extended to affected families,” she was quoted as saying.
A viral video on social media showed a local woman urging Kangana to leave Mandi due to her prior absence when help was needed. She criticized Kangana for only appearing during times of publicity. Meanwhile, Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda was questioned by the media about Kangana's absence and confirmed that she would be visiting Mandi shortly.
During her tour of the disaster-stricken villages, Kangana made an uneasy statement, saying, “I do not possess any disaster relief funds or hold a Cabinet position. The role of MPs is confined to Parliament. We are relatively minor players in this scenario. However, I can assist in securing disaster funds from the Centre.” She candidly accused the Congress-led state government of failing to provide relief to victims who lost their lives, were injured, or lost property due to cloudbursts.
This visit came amidst significant criticism from within her party regarding her absence in her constituency.
Jairam Thakur, Leader of Opposition and representative of the flood-ravaged Seraj constituency in Mandi, is serving his sixth consecutive term.
Previously, Kangana claimed that she attempted to reach her constituency but was advised by Jairam Thakur to wait until access to the affected areas was restored.
In response to her clarification regarding her absence, former Chief Minister Jairam Thakur stated to the media, “We are dedicated to the locals; we live and die for them. I cannot comment on those who do not.”
Point of View
It is essential to recognize that the sentiments of the constituents must be valued. Kangna Ranaut's late visit to the affected areas has raised legitimate questions about her commitment to her role as an MP. While her efforts to provide relief are commendable, the underlying discontent reflects a broader concern about political accountability and responsiveness in times of crisis.
NationPress
19/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Kangna Ranaut criticized for her absence?
Kangana faced backlash for not visiting flood-affected villages immediately after the disaster, which led to public outrage.
What areas did Kangna Ranaut visit during her trip?
She visited Pangliyur village in the Nachan Assembly constituency and assessed the impact in Karsog, Sanarli, Kutti, and Megli.
How many fatalities have been reported due to the floods in Himachal Pradesh?
As of now, there have been 78 confirmed deaths across the state, with 14 in Mandi district.
What assistance did Kangna Ranaut provide during her visit?
She met with affected families, provided relief materials, and pledged to ensure developmental works for villagers.
What was the reaction of local residents during her visit?
Local residents expressed anger and disappointment over her delayed response to the disaster.
