Not again, Kangana

FACING anti-incumbency after two consecutive terms in Haryana, the Bharatiya Janata Party now has to contend with an unprovoked self-goal. Just days ahead of the October 5 Assembly elections, controversy's favourite child has put the party in a spot. It's a double whammy this time — a very touchy topic and wrong timing. At a religious fair in Himachal Pradesh, Mandi MP Kangana Ranaut said the three farm laws — which were repealed after a year-long farmers’ agitation on Delhi’s borders — should be brought back. In a bid to limit the damage, the BJP lost no time in making Kangana take back her remarks. The customary spin that this was her personal opinion doesn’t hold water. Known for controversial utterances, the actor-parliamentarian can only be expected to rely on her instinctive understanding of issues. Thanks to the patronage she enjoys, Kangana did just that. So, who’s at fault?

The Opposition is sure to not let go of this opportunity to portray the BJP as anti-farmer. That’s the nature of politics, but there's a lesson here for every party — rein in those crossing the line. As it is, the standard of election debates has been reduced to personal allegations, unreal claims and outlandish promises. Causing controversies further muddies the waters. However, the problem is not Kangana herself — if not her, someone else would be speaking her language. Parties need to reflect on the consequences of giving unhindered space to those who are uninitiated in the nuances of public life.

Agriculture-related issues — such as improving the lot of farmers, increasing productivity and conserving water — dominate the manifestos of all parties. There is also unanimity that the solutions being worked out are inadequate. The solution, then, lies in building consensus, not in confrontations.