Newly elected Member of Parliament from Mandi, Kangana Ranaut, sparked controversy with her comments about Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi. The actor-turned-politician suggested that Gandhi should undergo drug testing, basing her allegations on his recent speech in Parliament.

Ranaut's remarks came in response to Gandhi's address in the Lok Sabha, where he employed the 'chakravyuh' metaphor to criticize the BJP-led government. In a press interaction, Ranaut questioned Gandhi's respect for democratic processes, stating, "The Prime Minister is chosen through a democratic election by the entire nation. Does Gandhi not respect this process? Is he suggesting that factors like gender, age, social status, or caste should determine the selection of a Prime Minister? Such comments consistently undermine our Constitution."

She further added, "He might next propose that skin color should be a criterion for selecting the Prime Minister. Where's his regard for our democratic principles?"

Ranaut then made a controversial insinuation about Gandhi's state of mind during parliamentary sessions. "His performance yesterday in Parliament resembled a comedy show. He seems to have no sense of propriety. He entered the Lok Sabha and declared, 'We are Shivji's wedding procession, and they (BJP) are the chakravyuh.' As a new member, I was utterly shocked by his behavior and statements."

The Mandi MP continued her criticism, suggesting that Gandhi's behavior warranted scrutiny. "The manner in which he conducts himself in Parliament and the nature of his statements are concerning. Doesn't it seem reasonable to test whether he's under the influence of any substances? I believe such an individual should be evaluated. He appears either inebriated or drug-affected when he arrives at Parliament, which is highly inappropriate."

When pressed on whether she was directly accusing Gandhi of substance abuse, Ranaut responded, "Do you believe someone who speaks about Shivji's wedding procession and chakravyuh in Parliament is in full control of their faculties? I have my doubts."


For context, Gandhi's speech had referenced the Mahabharata legend of Abhimanyu's demise in a 'chakravyuh' - a complex military formation designed to entrap opponents. Gandhi had drawn parallels between this ancient tactic and what he perceived as the current government's strategies.


"In our modern era, a new 'chakravyuh' has emerged," Gandhi had stated in his speech. "It takes the form of a lotus, with the Prime Minister wearing this symbol on his chest. The fate that befell Abhimanyu is now being inflicted upon India - its youth, women, farmers, and small to medium-sized enterprises."