BJP is upset with Mandi MP Kangana Ranaut over her remarks against farmers: Harjit Singh Grewal

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, September 1

Coming down heavily on Mandi MP Kangana Ranaut over her controversial remarks against farmers recently, senior Punjab BJP leader Harjit Singh Grewal today said the party principles could not be compromised by any party leader for self-promotion.

In response to a specific question on the controversial remarks by Kangana, Grewal, a member of the national executive of the party, said: “Every Member of Parliament does not become a leader of the party overnight. It takes years of dedication by any worker to fully be in unison with our party principles. I am associated with the BJP for the past more than 35 years.”

“The party high command has communicated Kangana its unhappiness with her remarks,” he added.

When asked to comment on Kangana’s movie ‘Emergency’, Grewal said: “She is an actor and is free to make her choice for the movies. As far as public display of films is concerned, it is the prerogative of the Censor Board to whether allow it or not. I opposed her right from the beginning on this issue. Party is not associated with any of these activities. The BJP is opposed to anyone who speaks against the Khalsa.”

Grewal also said all demands of farmers had been accepted by the government at least six months before the agitation ended. However, certain groups, for their self-interest, are not allowing the agitation to end. The three farm Bills under question are very good for the farmers in the long run. However, the party has failed in convincing the farmers. “That is why Prime Minister withdrew the Bills,” he said.

In response to a question on Sukhbir Badal seeking forgiveness from Akal Takht, he said: “The SAD president is doing a mere formality.”

Grewal said the BJP would ensure that those behind the 1984 anti-Sikh riots following assassination of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi would be punished. The Congress had, in fact, honoured those involved in riots with party ticket, he said.

“We have constituted an SIT and our party will ensure that all guilty are brought to the book,” he added.