Kangana Criticised Over Mandi Floods: Jairam Thakur Hits Out, Congress Joins In

As devastating floods and cloudbursts continue to wreak havoc in Himachal Pradesh, political tensions have flared over the perceived silence of local BJP MP and actor Kangana Ranaut. Former Chief Minister Jairam Thakur's remarks questioning Ranaut's absence triggered a sharp response from the Congress party, further intensifying the controversy.

Jairam Thakur's Remarks Spark Political Row

The controversy began when Jairam Thakur, Leader of the Opposition and BJP veteran from Himachal Pradesh, was asked about Kangana Ranaut's lack of comment on the ongoing disaster in her constituency, Mandi. In response, Thakur said, "I do not know, and I do not wish to comment on it. We are here to live and die for those who care; I do not wish to comment on those who do not care."

Thakur's comments came after Kangana had posted on social media about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Ghana, but not about the monsoon devastation unfolding in Mandi.

Congress Amplifies Criticism

Seizing the opportunity, the Congress party shared a video clip of Thakur's remarks on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), saying:

"MP Kangana Ranaut does not care about the people of Mandi. These are not our words, but those of former Himachal Chief Minister and BJP leader Jairam Thakur."

The party further accused Kangana of ignoring the plight of her constituents during a severe natural disaster, stating that she was "nowhere to be seen."

Mandi Battles Deadly Floods

The situation in Mandi district is dire, with 14 deaths and over 30 people reported missing due to cloudbursts and flash floods since Monday. The State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) reported massive damage to infrastructure:

Over 150 homes and 106 cattle sheds destroyed

31 vehicles and 14 bridges damaged

Several roads washed away, disrupting connectivity

An estimated ₹400 crore in total property damage

A red alert remains in effect in Himachal Pradesh until July 7

Across the state, at least 37 lives have been lost in rain-related incidents.

Kangana Breaks Silence, Expresses Grief

Amid mounting criticism, Kangana Ranaut responded on Friday, expressing sorrow and clarifying her position. In a social media post, she wrote:

"It is heartbreaking to see massive flood devastation in Himachal almost every year now. I tried reaching flood-affected areas in Seraj and other parts of Mandi but was advised by respected leader of opposition Shri @jairamthakurbjp ji to wait until connectivity and reach to the affected areas are restored. Red alert is issued by Mandi DC today as well. Awaiting authorities' approval on the same, will be there soonest possible. Thanks."

Her statement came after Jairam Thakur visited Kukla Gram Panchayat in Seraj constituency, where homes and roads were washed away in recent cloudbursts. Thakur urged the government to accelerate relief, rescue, and rehabilitation efforts in the region.

The row has ignited a broader conversation about MP accountability, especially in disaster-prone regions like Himachal. While Ranaut's supporters say her visit is pending due to safety protocols, critics argue that visible leadership during a crisis is essential.

As Mandi residents grapple with nature's fury, the political storm shows no sign of abating.