Kangana Ranaut Slams SAD President Simranjit Singh Mann For 'Trivialising Rape'

Kangana Ranaut, BJP MP from Mandi, has strongly criticized Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) President Sardar Simranjit Singh Mann for belittling rape. Expressing her frustration on X (formerly Twitter), Ranaut condemned Mann's comparison of rape to riding a bicycle, calling it a reflection of the deep-rooted misogyny in India. She stated, “It appears this country will never stop trivializing rape. Today, a senior politician compared it to riding a bicycle. No wonder rape and violence against women are so ingrained in our patriarchal society that even high-profile individuals are mocked or belittled.”

Earlier, Mann had made disparaging comments about Ranaut’s remarks on the farmers' protests. Ranaut had suggested that India could have faced a crisis similar to Bangladesh if not for strong leadership during the protests against the now-repealed agricultural laws. Mann's comments included an inappropriate remark about Ranaut's alleged personal experiences with rape, suggesting that people should learn about rape from her. This led to criticism from former NCW chief Rekha Sharma, who called for Mann's removal from society.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwat Mann responded to the controversy by urging Ranaut to focus on resolving issues in her constituency rather than making controversial statements. He criticized her for making remarks that he deemed absurd and harmful to societal harmony, emphasizing that MPs should avoid statements that could incite unrest.

The BJP has faced backlash following Ranaut’s statements, with demands for greater control over its members' public comments. In addition, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has issued a legal notice to Ranaut and the producers of her upcoming film Emergency, accusing them of misrepresenting Sikh history. The film, set for release on September 6, features Ranaut as former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Protests have already begun, with effigies of Ranaut being burned in Bathinda. Sikh leader Gurdeep Singh has accused her of spreading hatred against farmers and Sikhs.