Wed Sep 25 04:18:53 UTC 2024: ## BJP MP Kangana Ranaut Walks Back Controversial Statement on Farm Laws, Apologizes
**Mandi, Himachal Pradesh:** BJP MP and Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut has retracted her statement calling for the reinstatement of the three controversial farm laws, which were repealed by the government in 2021 after months of protests by farmers.
Ranaut initially sparked controversy on Tuesday when she stated that the laws should be brought back and that farmers should demand their reimplementation. This statement drew immediate criticism from the BJP, with party spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia stating that her views did not reflect the party’s stance.
Facing backlash and a statement from the BJP distancing itself from her comments, Ranaut issued an apology. In a video statement, she acknowledged that her comments were “personal” and did not represent the party’s position. She added that she regrets her statement and hopes it hasn’t caused any disappointment.
This isn’t the first time Ranaut has courted controversy with her remarks on the farmers’ protests. Last month, she drew criticism from the BJP after stating that a Bangladesh-like situation could have emerged in India if the Centre had not taken strong measures during the protests.
The Congress and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) have condemned Ranaut’s statement. Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate called the farm laws “black laws” and highlighted the sacrifice of over 750 farmers during the protests. AAP leader Balbir Singh dismissed Ranaut’s comments as “comedy” and urged people not to take her seriously.
Ranaut’s latest statement comes days before the Haryana assembly elections, which are expected to be heavily influenced by the farmers’ issue. The state saw massive protests against the farm laws, with farmers participating in multiple blockades in Delhi.
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