CM Sukhu Hails Kangana Ranaut As 'Daughter of Himachal' Amid Family's Congress Ties
Ranaut's candidacy and the BJP's rapid response underscored the importance of identity politics and the stakes involved in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
A storm of controversy erupted after a contentious social media post by Congress leader Supriya Shrinate targeted Kangana Ranaut, the BJP's Mandi Lok Sabha candidate from Himachal Pradesh. Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu weighed in, labeling Ranaut as the "daughter of Himachal," amidst widespread outrage over Shrinate's now-deleted post.
Sukhu underscored Ranaut's deep-rooted connections to Himachal Pradesh, highlighting her parents' residency in the state and her father's prior role as the Congress General Secretary in Mandi. The BJP's selection of Ranaut as their Lok Sabha candidate further fueled political tensions in the region.
The contentious incident began with an objectionable post featuring Ranaut on Shrinate's Instagram account, provoking sharp criticism. Shrinate defended herself, attributing the post to unauthorized access to her social media accounts and promptly removing it upon detection. Meanwhile, Ranaut, on route to the BJP headquarters in Delhi, expressed her dismay, advocating for dignity for all women regardless of their profession.
Tensions escalated as Shrinate's post demeaned Mandi, referred to as 'Chota Kashi' for its religious significance. BJP leaders rallied behind Ranaut, with former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur denouncing the remarks and pledging legal action against those responsible. Thakur emphasized the potential electoral repercussions, warning of consequences not only in Mandi but statewide and beyond for the Congress party.
Thakur condemned Shrinate's actions, highlighting the irony of one woman attacking another. He dismissed Shrinate's claim of compromised social media accounts, indicating the BJP's intention to pursue legal avenues.
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The incident underscored broader tensions in the political arena, with gender dynamics and regional affiliations taking center stage. Ranaut's candidacy and the BJP's rapid response underscored the importance of identity politics and the stakes involved in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.
As the controversy reverberates across Himachal Pradesh and beyond, it underscores the intricate nature of Indian politics, where personal attacks and social media clashes intersect with larger electoral narratives and regional identities.
