Political war of words: Kangana Ranaut targets Rahul Gandhi, Congress leaders fire back

PTC Web Desk: A fresh political controversy erupted on Wednesday after BJP MP Kangana Ranaut made sharp remarks about Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of behaving in a manner she described as “uncomfortable” for women.

Speaking to mediapersons outside Parliament, Kangana Ranaut alleged that Rahul Gandhi’s conduct lacks decorum. She claimed that his way of interacting, including using casual language and interrupting interviews, creates unease. Drawing a comparison, she said he should take cues from his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, whose public behaviour she described as more composed.

Her comments come in the backdrop of a recent controversy linked to Rahul Gandhi’s protest at the Parliament complex on March 12, where he was seen sitting on the steps near Makar Dwar while having tea and snacks. The incident drew criticism from several quarters, with a group comprising 84 former bureaucrats, 116 ex-servicemen and four lawyers issuing an open letter demanding an apology, alleging that the act undermined the dignity of Parliament.

The remarks by Kangana Ranaut triggered strong reactions from Congress leaders. Party MP S  Jothimani criticised Kangana Ranaut, saying her statements reflect poorly on her own conduct. She added that being a celebrity or dressing well does not define a person’s character, and questioned Kangana Ranaut’s authority to comment on Rahul Gandhi.

Punjab Congress chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring also weighed in, taking a dig at the BJP MP. He remarked that Kangana appears to view Parliament as a film set, where appearances matter more than substance. He defended Rahul Gandhi, stating that he attends Parliament for political work, not performance.

The issue has also drawn attention from senior political figures. Former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda recently wrote to Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi, urging her to advise party MPs to maintain parliamentary discipline. In his letter, Gowda expressed concern over recent protests during the Budget Session, including slogan-shouting, displaying posters and demonstrations within the Parliament premises.

Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah also criticised Rahul Gandhi during a public rally in Guwahati on March 15. Shah said that Parliament is the highest democratic institution and questioned the appropriateness of staging protests while eating snacks at its entrance. He added that such actions could negatively impact India’s image globally.