In the ever-turbulent world of Indian politics and public discourse, two figures have recently come to symbolize controversy and double standards: Dhirendra Shastri, the self-styled godman, and Kangana Ranaut, the fiery BJP Member of Parliament. Both have found themselves at the center of heated debates, not just for their statements, but for what many see as glaring contradictions in their words and actions.

Dhirendra Shastri: The Designer Baba on a Political Stage

Dhirendra Shastri, often seen on political platforms alongside BJP leaders, claims he is not affiliated with any political party. Yet, his speeches frequently echo the party’s rhetoric, particularly on Hindu unity and the call for a “Bhagwa Hind” (Saffron India). He criticizes those who advocate for caste census, urging Hindus to unite, while conveniently overlooking the harsh realities of caste-based discrimination that persist in society.

Ironically, Shastri himself has faced caste-based humiliation. A Yadav by caste, he was publicly shamed in Etawah when Brahmins forcibly shaved his head for conducting religious discourses in their village. Despite this, he chooses to ignore the ongoing atrocities committed in the name of caste, focusing instead on religious unity. Critics argue that his selective outrage exposes his double standards.

Kangana Ranaut: Silence in Tragedy, Laughter in Disaster

Kangana Ranaut, the MP from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, is no stranger to controversy. As floods devastated her home state, her silence was deafening. When she finally appeared in public, she was seen laughing alongside BJP leader Jairam Thakur, drawing widespread criticism for her insensitivity. Thakur himself seemed uncomfortable, unable to defend her behavior.

This is not the first time Kangana has embarrassed her party. From making bizarre statements about international leaders to advocating for the return of the controversial farm laws, her comments have repeatedly forced the BJP to distance itself from her words. Her social media history is equally contentious, having been suspended from Twitter for inciting violence against farmers and making inflammatory remarks about religious minorities.

The Reality of Caste Atrocities

While Shastri talks about Hindu unity, recent incidents highlight the grim reality of caste oppression in India. In Etawah, a Yadav man was humiliated for reciting religious texts. In Odisha’s Ganjam district, two Dalits were tortured for buying a cow and a calf—their heads shaved and their mouths stuffed with grass. In Firozabad, Uttar Pradesh, over 250 SC/ST individuals have been victims of atrocities this year alone. In Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan, a Dalit youth died after being brutally beaten. In Bihar’s Nawada, 34 homes of Mahadalits were burned down, and a Dalit girl was gang-raped and kidnapped.

These incidents are a stark reminder of the deep-seated casteism that persists, even as leaders like Shastri choose to ignore them in their pursuit of religious unity.

BJP’s Dilemma with Kangana

Kangana’s repeated public blunders have become a source of embarrassment for the BJP. From her insensitive remarks during national tragedies to her controversial statements on farmers and minorities, the party has often had to rein her in. Yet, her celebrity status and vocal support for the party make her difficult to sideline completely.

Conclusion

Dhirendra Shastri and Kangana Ranaut, in their own ways, have become symbols of the contradictions that plague Indian society and politics. Their selective outrage, controversial statements, and public behavior have sparked debates about what it means to be accountable as a public figure. As India grapples with issues of caste, religion, and political polarization, voices like theirs serve as both a reflection and a catalyst for the ongoing struggle over the nation’s identity.