Actor and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut has responded to criticism over her recent “generation gutter” remark, saying her comments were directed at the use of abusive language by some young protesters and not at an entire generation.
Sharing a video message on Instagram, the parliamentarian defended her stand, arguing that freedom of expression should not come at the cost of civility and respect.
Addressing what she described as selective reporting by sections of the media, Kangana said her remarks had been taken out of context. She claimed that while she had also spoken about scientific achievements and wished students appearing for examinations well, attention had largely focused on her criticism of offensive language used during the protests.
In the video, Kangana questioned whether parents would encourage their children to use vulgar language in public. Stressing the importance of discipline and social responsibility, she said respectful conduct was essential for living in society and that personal freedom should not infringe on the dignity and sentiments of others.
The BJP MP also objected to the use of abusive language directed at public figures and their families. Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, she said people may view leaders in different ways, but insulting them with offensive language was unacceptable and reflected a lack of basic civic sense.
Kangana further criticised what she termed “feminazi” ideology, alleging that it promotes behaviour lacking social responsibility. She argued that such attitudes encourage people to cross acceptable boundaries in public life and urged young people not to be influenced by what she described as harmful narratives.
Concluding her message, Kangana said human society progresses through evolution and learning, expressing hope that people would choose respect and maturity over hostility. She also extended Guru Purnima greetings to her followers.
The clarification comes days after Kangana’s earlier social media posts criticising Gen Z protesters triggered widespread backlash. In those posts, she described videos from the demonstrations as “filth” and “garbage” and accused some participants of using crude and offensive language.
Her remarks followed reports that Delhi Police had requested social media platform X to remove posts containing abusive or derogatory comments allegedly directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other constitutional authorities during the student protests linked to the July 20 “Chalo Sansad” march.
The controversy has sparked fresh debate on the balance between freedom of expression, public discourse and responsible conduct on social media, with reactions continuing to pour in from political leaders and social media users.
