In a surprising development, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) officer involved in the altercation with Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut is set to be honored with a gold ring engraved with the image of Periyar, the renowned social activist and politician.
Background of the Incident
On June 6, 2024, an incident at Chandigarh airport caught national attention when CISF officer LCT Kulwinder Kaur slapped Kangana Ranaut. The confrontation reportedly stemmed from Ranaut’s comments on the farmer protests in Punjab, which led to a heated exchange during a security check.
#KanganaRanaut slapped by a CISF constable, Kulwinder Kaur. She was reportedly upset with Kangana’s comments on farmers.
Despicable way of expressing ideological differences, especially when you’re wearing a uniform! pic.twitter.com/EH4DRqbKJu
— Roop Darak (Modi Ka Parivar) (@RoopDarak) June 6, 2024
Reactions and Public Outcry
The incident sparked a wave of reactions from various quarters. Independent journalist Faye D’Souza took to Instagram to condemn the violence, emphasizing that such behavior is unacceptable regardless of differing opinions. Her post received support from numerous celebrities, including Hrithik Roshan and Alia Bhatt.
Politicians and public figures also weighed in, calling for a thorough investigation and appropriate action against the officer involved. However, a contrasting wave of support for the CISF officer emerged, particularly from groups and individuals who praised her actions as a stance against perceived extremism.
Honorary Gesture for the CISF Officer
Thanthai Periyar Dravidar Kazhagam, a Periyarist organization based in Coimbatore, has gifted a gold ring engraved with the image of the reformist leader Periyar to the CISF (Central Industrial Security Force) constable who slapped actress and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut. This gesture was made to appreciate the constable’s support for the farmers of Punjab.
The constable stated that she slapped Ranaut at Chandigarh Airport in disgust over the actress’s remarks describing the protesting farmers of Punjab as ‘Khalistanis’, noting that her own mother had also participated in the protests. Following the incident, the constable was suspended from duty.
Kovai Ramakrishnan, the founder leader of Thanthai Periyar Dravidar Kazhagam, described the constable as a courageous woman who stood by the farmers. He explained that the gold ring, engraved with the image of the reformist leader, was sent to her as a token of appreciation for her bravery.
The decision to honor the CISF officer has sparked a fresh round of public discourse. Supporters argue that the officer’s actions were a defense of her principles and beliefs, while critics maintain that violence, especially by security personnel, cannot be justified.