Shimla | July 7, 2025 : In the midst of Himachal Pradesh’s devastating monsoon crisis, newly elected Mandi MP Kangana Ranaut has sparked a political and public storm, not with rescue efforts, but with a baffling statement. Responding to criticism over her silence and inaction during the recent floods and landslides, Kangana declared, “I have no funds, no cabinet post. What do you expect me to do?”

Her remarks, made during a brief media interaction in Mandi, were meant to justify her absence from ground-level relief work amid the catastrophe that has killed at least 78 people in the state. However, the comments have not only confused many but also invited sharp backlash from opposition leaders, civil society, and social media users.

“Isn’t the job of an MP to help people in times of need, with or without a cabinet post?” questioned a Congress spokesperson. “If this is Kangana’s idea of public service, it’s nothing short of tragic.”

Kangana, who won her seat as a BJP candidate by a large margin, seemed to distance herself from responsibility, suggesting that only those with ministerial power or government funds could contribute meaningfully to relief operations. Ironically, this came just hours after several MLAs and even local volunteers were seen distributing food, arranging shelter, and helping with evacuations in rain-battered districts like Kullu, Mandi, and Shimla, without any “cabinet post.”

The actor-turned-politician, known for her fiery and often controversial remarks, has in the past taken strong stances on patriotism, public accountability, and nationalism. Her critics now say those words ring hollow when measured against her current actions or lack thereof.

Kangana later attempted to clarify her statement via a social media post, saying she was in touch with local officials and was "doing her best behind the scenes." She also claimed political rivals were trying to "tarnish" her image and "use a tragedy for cheap politics." Yet the damage was already done.

Many Himachal residents expressed disappointment on the ground. “We voted for her thinking she would be a strong voice for us. But when the disaster hit, we didn’t see her,” said Rakesh, a shopkeeper in Mandi town. “What’s the point of electing someone who says they can’t do anything?”

Political analysts noted that while MPs may not control funds directly, they do have MPLADS (Member of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme) funds and significant influence to push for central or state-level assistance. Even public outreach, coordination with NGOs, or simply being present to support rescue teams can make a difference.

In contrast, leaders from other constituencies, both ruling and opposition have been seen on-site, offering support and coordinating with the administration.

With the monsoon expected to continue, pressure is mounting on Kangana to step up, not step away. Whether this controversy marks a political learning curve or a longer-term reputational hit remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: public memory, especially in disaster-hit regions, is not so short.