Double Standards and Controversy: Dhirendra Shastri and Kangana Ranaut Face Criticism Over Hypocrisy and Insensitivity

In a fresh wave of controversy, Dhirendra Shastri and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut have come under public scrutiny for their alleged double standards and insensitivity towards pressing social issues. Both figures, often seen on political platforms, have been accused of hypocrisy, drawing criticism from various quarters, including opposition leaders and social activists.

Dhirendra Shastri: Preaching Unity, Ignoring Caste Atrocities

Dhirendra Shastri, a prominent religious preacher, has repeatedly claimed he is not affiliated with any political party, even while sharing the stage with BJP leaders. He calls for Hindu unity and openly criticizes leaders advocating for caste-based census, yet seems to ignore the harsh realities of caste-based atrocities in Indian society.

Citing recent incidents, critics highlight the contradiction in Shastri’s statements. For example, a Yadav storyteller in Etawah was humiliated and had his head shaved by Brahmins for narrating religious stories, simply because of his caste. Similarly, in Ganjam, Odisha, two Dalits who bought a cow and calf were publicly humiliated and abused. These cases, among others, showcase the ongoing caste-based violence that Shastri chooses to overlook while calling for Hindu unity.

Opposition leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Tejashwi Yadav have called for caste census not to divide society, but to address these inequalities. Yet, Shastri’s rhetoric seems to sidestep these pressing issues, focusing instead on religious unity without acknowledging the discrimination within the community.

Kangana Ranaut: Silence and Laughter Amidst Disaster

Meanwhile, Kangana Ranaut, BJP MP from Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, has been criticized for her lack of response to the recent devastating floods in the state. When she did appear publicly, she was seen laughing alongside BJP leaders, including Jairam Thakur, drawing ire from both the public and her own party members.

This is not the first time Ranaut has courted controversy. She has previously made statements that embarrassed the BJP, including controversial remarks about former US President Donald Trump and the Indian Prime Minister, as well as her support for the repealed farm laws that led to massive farmer protests and deaths. Her insensitive comments and subsequent retractions have repeatedly put her party in a difficult position.

Caste Atrocities: The Harsh Reality

Recent data and incidents highlight the persistent problem of caste-based violence in India. In Firozabad, Uttar Pradesh, the highest number of atrocities against Scheduled Castes was recorded, with 259 SC/ST victims in 221 cases. In Rajasthan’s Jhunjhunu, a Dalit youth was beaten to death. In Bihar’s Nawada, 34 homes belonging to Mahadalits were burned down, and a Dalit girl was gang-raped and kidnapped by members of dominant castes.

These incidents, raised by opposition leaders, are a stark reminder of the deep-rooted discrimination that exists, even as some leaders choose to ignore or downplay them for political convenience.

Public Reaction and Media Responsibility

Public figures like Pappu Yadav have openly questioned the silence of religious leaders on issues such as untouchability and caste discrimination in temples. Similarly, Akhilesh Yadav, former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, has criticized those who commercialize religious storytelling and ignore the injustices faced by marginalized communities.

The media, too, has been called out for not holding primetime debates on these issues, instead focusing on trivial controversies for TRP.

The recent actions and statements of Dhirendra Shastri and Kangana Ranaut have reignited the debate on double standards and the selective outrage of public figures. While they preach unity and nationalism, their silence or selective activism on social injustices and tragedies exposes a troubling hypocrisy. As India continues to grapple with issues of caste, discrimination, and disaster response, the need for genuine leadership and accountability from public figures has never been greater.