Actor-politician Kangana Ranaut has faced reprimand from BJP leadership following controversial remarks about the farmers’ protest. In a statement issued today, the BJP clarified that Ranaut’s comments do not reflect the party’s stance.

The BJP’s disapproval followed a statement from the 38-year-old BJP MP suggesting that the farmers’ protest could have escalated into a Bangladesh-like crisis had the government not intervened decisively.

“The BJP has made it clear that Kangana Ranaut is not authorized to speak on policy matters on behalf of the party and has not been given permission to do so. We have directed Ms. Ranaut to avoid making such statements in the future,” the BJP said.

Earlier, BJP leaders from Haryana and Punjab also advised Ranaut to avoid making inflammatory remarks. “It is not Kangana’s role to comment on farmers. Her statements are personal opinions. The Prime Minister and the BJP are supportive of farmers. Opposition parties are using these statements to undermine us. Kangana should avoid discussing sensitive or religious issues,” said Harjit Grewal, a Punjab BJP leader.

The Congress also weighed in, with leader Randeep Surjewala criticizing Ranaut’s remarks and questioning if they reflected the party’s views. “Were these just Kangana’s words, or did they come from somewhere else? If not, why is the BJP silent?” Surjewala asked. Ranaut, known for her provocative statements, had previously criticized the farmers’ protest against the now-repealed farm laws.

In 2020, Ranaut drew criticism for misidentifying a woman farmer from Punjab, calling her Bilkis Bano, a figure from the anti-Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) protests. She had also alleged that the woman could be hired for protests at a rate of ₹100. This controversy resurfaced when Ranaut was slapped by a Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) constable at Chandigarh airport in June while on her way to Delhi.