Another remark by Kangana Ranaut leads to controversy, what Congress said?

The Congress party has criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over a recent statement made by Kangana Ranaut, a BJP Lok Sabha Member of Parliament from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh. In a recent interview, Kangana expressed her opposition to the idea of conducting a caste census, claiming that people do not give much thought to caste.

Supriya Shrinate, a spokesperson for the Congress party, strongly criticized Kangana's remarks, pointing out that as someone from an upper-caste background, she is likely unaware of the difficulties faced by people from marginalized communities. Shrinet took to social media platform X to express her disapproval, stating, "Today again BJP MP Kangana said that caste census should not be done at all."

Supriya Shrinate further highlighted Kangana's statement, where she questioned the need for a caste census. Kangana had said, "Why do we have to do it? Why do we have to find out the caste? There is nothing like caste around me." 

In response, Shrinate commented, "Madam, you are an upper caste, rich, star, MP. What do you know about the condition of a Dalit, backward, tribal, or poor general caste?"

To emphasize her point, Shrinate also shared a video clip from Kangana's interview where she made these remarks.

Shrinate urges PM Modi to clarify his position

Shrinate then urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to clarify his position on the caste census issue, particularly in light of the differing opinions within the BJP's allies, such as the Janata Dal (United) (JDU) and Chirag Paswan of the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP). She said, "Now Modi Ji, break your silence. If not to us, then at least tell your stand to your allies JDU and LJP's Chirag Paswan."

This controversy comes on the heels of another recent statement by Kangana, in which she made contentious comments about the farmers' movement. Following that statement, the BJP distanced itself from her remarks and advised her to refrain from making such statements. In addition, the Congress-led government in Himachal Pradesh passed a condemnation motion against her comments, while the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) organized protests in several cities in Haryana.

The escalating exchange over Kangana's remarks has highlighted the broader political debate on caste-based issues in India, with parties like Congress seeking clarity on where the BJP stands on matters that impact marginalized communities.