Tension flares as Cong workers protest Kangana’s visit to Sundernagar

The atmosphere at Sundernagar in Mandi district turned tense today during the visit of MP Kangana Ranaut as Youth Congress workers staged a protest against her near the old bus stand. The protesters waved black flags and raised slogans of "Kangana Go Back" and "Kangana Ranaut Bhag Gayi", expressing their discontent with her work as an elected representative.

The protest was led by Mandi district Youth Congress president Nikhil Thakur, who, along with several supporters, had gathered with an intention to intercept Kangana’s convoy. However, to avoid confrontation and potential unrest, the local police and BJP organisers altered the MP’s route, directing her convoy away from the protest site before it could reach the planned venue.

Kangana was at Sundernagar to celebrate the Bachat Utsav to appreciate the GST reforms of the Central Government. She was accompanied by Sundernagar MLA Rakesh Jamwal.

Angered by the change of route and Kangana avoiding the area, the Youth Congress workers intensified their protest with sloganeering. The tension escalated when BJP workers arrived at the site, leading to a face off between the two rival groups. Shouting counter-slogans in support of Kangana and the BJP, their presence fuelled tension, forcing the police to step in to restore order. Law enforcement personnel had to work hard to prevent the situation from getting out of control.

This is not the first time Kangana has faced such hostilities from political opponents. During her recent visit to Kullu, Congress workers had raised "Go Back" slogans, accusing her of failing to connect with people or address development issues.

Youth Congress leader Nikhil Thakur alleged that Kangana had betrayed the people of the Mandi parliamentary segment. “There has been no tangible progress or development initiative. Instead, her controversial statements have spoiled social atmosphere in Himachal and across India,” he added. Nikhil also criticised the BJP-led Central government for allegedly misleading people.