The Kangana Ranaut Udta Punjab controversy has ignited a political clash after the actor-turned-BJP MP claimed drugs were entering Himachal Pradesh through Punjab. Speaking during the Parliament session on July 25, 2025, Kangana Ranaut backed Himachal Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla’s warning that the state could become the next “Udta Punjab.” Her statement has drawn sharp criticism from Punjab’s ruling Aam Aadmi Party.
In a video shared on Instagram, Kangana Ranaut accused drug trafficking from Pakistan via Punjab of harming Himachal’s youth. “Our children are now stealing, breaking furniture, and locking themselves in rooms. Parents are begging for help,” she said.
The Governor had earlier pointed to a 340% rise in narcotics cases since 2012, urging urgent action and calling out the lack of rehabilitation centres. Currently, only one such facility is run by the Red Cross in Kullu.
Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema dismissed her remarks as “absurd and baseless.” He accused her of targeting Punjab without proof and ignoring issues in BJP-ruled states. This isn’t Kangana Ranaut’s first Punjab-related row. She earlier targeted Diljit Dosanjh over his film Sardaar Ji 3, which also drew backlash — read full story here.
The Kangana Ranaut Udta Punjab controversy has reignited debates on drug policy, rehabilitation, and political blame games. Should more focus be on solutions than finger-pointing?
❓ FAQ
Why is Kangana Ranaut being criticized over her Udta Punjab remark?
Kangana Ranaut linked drug abuse in Himachal to trafficking through Punjab, which many see as an unfair generalization. AAP leaders called her claims baseless.
What did the Himachal Governor say about the drug issue?
Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla warned Himachal could become the next “Udta Punjab” if rising drug abuse isn’t controlled, citing a 340% rise in NDPS cases.
Has Kangana Ranaut made controversial Punjab remarks before?
Yes, she recently targeted Diljit Dosanjh over Sardaar Ji 3, which also drew backlash from Punjab. Read the full story here.
Is there a real drug problem in Himachal Pradesh?
Yes. Official data shows a major spike in drug cases, but critics argue the problem is nationwide and shouldn’t be blamed on Punjab alone.
