Shabana Azmi Weighs In on Kangana Ranaut Slap Controversy
08.06.2024: In a recent incident that has garnered significant attention, actor-politician Kangana Ranaut, who won the Lok Sabha election from Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi, was involved in a confrontation at an airport. Renowned actress Shabana Azmi has now commented on the situation.
The Incident On Thursday, Kangana Ranaut was preparing to board a flight to Delhi when the altercation occurred. Mobile footage that quickly went viral shows Ranaut being escorted to a check-in counter where a verbal spat ensues. The video does not depict the alleged slapping incident.
Kangana’s Statement Kangana Ranaut later released a video statement expressing her concerns about rising terrorism in Punjab. She described the encounter at the security check-in, stating, “The woman guard waited for me to cross. She then came from the side and hit me. She started throwing expletives. I asked why she hit me. She said ‘I support farmers’. I am safe, but my concern is terrorism is rising in Punjab. How do we handle that?”
The Alleged Slapper’s Side Kulwinder Kaur, the woman constable accused of slapping Ranaut, claimed she did so because the actress had disrespected farmers. Kaur explained, “She (Kangana Ranaut) said the farmers are sitting there for ₹ 100. Will she go and sit there? My mother was sitting there and protesting when she gave this statement.”
Aftermath Following the incident, Kulwinder Kaur has been suspended, and a First Information Report (FIR) has been registered. This incident has rekindled memories of Kangana’s previous controversial statements about farmers.
Background In December 2020, Kangana Ranaut posted on X (formerly Twitter), suggesting an elderly woman protester was “available for ₹ 100,” implying she could be hired to attend protests. Later, in February 2021, Ranaut referred to the farm law protestors as “terrorists” after international pop star Rihanna showed support for the movement. Despite the farm laws being repealed in December 2021, Ranaut’s statements have continued to stir controversy. Notably, her car was once stopped by protesters in Punjab’s Kiratpur Sahib demanding an apology, which she gave after speaking with a few protesters.
Shabana Azmi’s Reaction Veteran actress Shabana Azmi weighed in on the controversy, stating, “No love lost for Kangana Ranaut, but the incident highlights deeper issues within our society. It’s important to address these concerns with sensitivity and understanding.”
The incident involving Kangana Ranaut at the airport has sparked widespread debate and drawn attention from various quarters, including prominent figures like Shabana Azmi. As the story continues to unfold, it underscores the ongoing tensions and the need for dialogue and reconciliation.