Kangana, Vikramaditya engage in verbal duel, draw public ire

A verbal duel between Mandi MP Kangana Ranaut and Public Works Department Minister Vikramaditya Singh at a time when cloudbursts have caused huge devastation has drawn sharp criticism from people.

The people of Mandi and Seraj, which have been worst hit by cloudbursts, have criticised Kangana for her utterances. Kangana, had reached Mandi yesterday after facing severe criticism for her absence in this hour of crisis. She today visited some villages in the Gohar area of Mandi. “This is not the time to play politics. As an elected MP, she should have at least announced funds from her MP Fund,” said Sonu, a resident of Balichowki.

Kangana said, “Those who have failed in their duties and are being criticised by the public have no right to preach me. I do not have a Cabinet, I have no disaster funds and I have limitations as an MP. I can only request the Central government for help.” She alleged that state leaders merely posed for photographs during their visits, offering only token assistance.

While touring the disaster-hit Thunag region of Mandi, she had targeted the state government and the PWD Minister, accusing them of mishandling relief efforts and calling them “corrupt” and “pretentious.”

However, her comments did not go down well with the local populace or political opponents. Residents of Seraj expressed disappointment over her perceived lack of concrete support. Gurdev Singh, another resident of Kushad panchayat, added, “We expected support from our MP in this hour of need. Her statement is disheartening and not in line with the responsibility of her position.”

She visited the disaster-hit Syanj village in Gohar subdivision to assess damages and assured all possible help. However, the political backlash continued.

Vikramaditya said, “One does not need a Cabinet to help people. It only takes intent and willpower. It’s painful to see such a serious issue being mocked,” he posted on social media.

HPCC chief Pratibha Singh urged Kangana to demand a special package from the Central Government for the affected families of Mandi.

Himachal Tribune