Mandi, 09 April: Despite her recent election as a Member of Parliament (MP), Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut has yet to secure a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, raising questions about the dynamics within the BJP. This is in stark contrast to other figures, like singer Diljit Dosanjh, who met with PM Modi for an extended two-hour session. APSC Chairman Sanjeev Guleria pointed out that Kangana’s inability to meet the Prime Minister is a clear indication that BJP leaders are distancing themselves from her, and it’s time for Kangana to introspect on her actions.
In a press conference held in Mandi, Guleria took a direct jibe at Kangana, questioning her behavior during her ongoing Mandi tour. While the actress-turned-MP has been effusive in her praise for PM Modi, she has also made disparaging comments about Congress leaders, including the likes of Vikramaditya Singh. However, Guleria noted that Congress leaders, in return, have treated her with respect. He reminded her that as an MP, she holds a public office and should exercise discretion when addressing other political figures.
“Kangana needs to understand that she is no longer just a Bollywood actress but a public representative,” said Guleria. “Her language and conduct as an MP should reflect the dignity of her office. If she continues using inappropriate language and creating unnecessary controversies, she risks alienating her own colleagues, which seems to be the case now.”
Further highlighting Kangana’s disconnect from her responsibilities, Guleria criticized her lack of action regarding her MP fund. Despite her tenure as an MP spanning nearly a year, Kangana has yet to allocate any funds for development in the Mandi constituency. According to Guleria, there is no record of any MP funds being spent on local initiatives, even after a thorough search.
“Kangana has raised questions about the work of former MP Pratibha Singh and other Congress leaders, but she hasn’t contributed a single penny from her MP fund in the past year,” Guleria stated. “Before criticizing others, she should focus on fulfilling her own responsibilities as an elected representative.”
In contrast, Guleria praised Vikramaditya Singh, who, despite losing the election, continues to remain active and engaged with the people of Mandi. “Vikramaditya is consistently among the people, addressing their concerns, while Kangana only comes around once a year, and instead of focusing on public welfare, she’s busy making controversial statements.”
Guleria also noted that Kangana’s behavior has left the people of her home constituency, Sarkaghat, disillusioned with her. The public, once hopeful about her role as an MP, is now expressing frustration over her lack of engagement with their issues. As her own actions continue to garner attention, it seems clear that Kangana Ranaut may need to reflect on her approach, both as an MP and as a public figure, to restore her credibility among her constituents and peers.