Kangana Ranaut Urges Media to Avoid Misrepresentation of Himachal Pradesh Floods
Published on: September 19, 2025
In a recent statement, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Member of Parliament Kangana Ranaut called on media outlets and social media influencers to exercise caution in their reporting on the devastating floods that have impacted parts of Himachal Pradesh. During a media interaction, Ranaut emphasized the importance of not generalizing localized incidents to portray a broader crisis affecting the entire state.
A Call for Responsible Reporting
Ranaut’s remarks came in the wake of severe flooding that struck the Kullu and Manali regions, leading to significant infrastructural damage and disruption of local livelihoods. “If an incident happens in one village, it should not be portrayed as if the entire Himachal is affected,” she stated, as reported by the Press Trust of India (PTI). Her appeal highlights a growing concern among local leaders about the potential economic repercussions of negative media portrayals, particularly in a state heavily reliant on tourism.
The actress-turned-politician also pointed out that the tourism sector has suffered immensely due to the floods. “Tourism has been affected not just in Manali but across Himachal Pradesh. Everyone associated with the hospitality industry is impacted,” she noted. Ranaut urged the state government to consider relief packages to support those affected, mentioning that the government has already announced some measures.
Protests During Her Visit
Ranaut’s visit to the flood-affected areas was not without controversy. Just a day prior, protests erupted in the Patlikuhal area of Kullu district, where residents expressed their dissatisfaction with her presence. Slogans such as “Go back Kangana, you are late” were chanted by locals, and videos of the protests quickly circulated on social media. The situation escalated to the point where police intervention was required to manage heated exchanges between locals and BJP leaders accompanying Ranaut.
Earlier in her visit, she toured the villages of Solang and Palchan, where she met with residents and received briefings on the extent of the damage from BJP leader Govind Singh Thakur.
The Impact of Recent Flooding
The floods that prompted Ranaut’s comments were triggered by heavy rainfall on August 25 and 26, which led to landslides and flash floods across the Kullu and Manali regions. The Beas River’s strong currents caused significant destruction, washing away a multi-storey hotel and several shops. Major highways, including the Chandigarh-Manali National Highway and the Manali-Leh Highway, also suffered extensive damage.
The Right Bank Road of Manali, which connects Kullu city to key areas, experienced severe destruction. In Ramshele, a house was damaged, while multiple homes in the 14 Mile area were inundated. Additionally, a fish farm in Patlikuhal was completely destroyed, further illustrating the widespread impact of the flooding.
Historical Context of Flooding in Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh, known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant tourism industry, has a history of facing natural disasters, particularly during the monsoon season. The state’s topography makes it susceptible to landslides and flash floods, which have become increasingly frequent in recent years, raising concerns about climate change and its effects on local ecosystems.
In 2018, for instance, heavy rains led to similar devastation, prompting discussions about the need for improved infrastructure and disaster management strategies. The recurring nature of these events has led to calls for more robust policies to mitigate the impact of natural disasters on vulnerable communities.
The Role of Media in Crisis Reporting
Ranaut’s appeal to the media underscores a broader issue regarding the responsibility of journalists and influencers in crisis reporting. The portrayal of localized incidents can have far-reaching consequences, affecting public perception and economic stability. In an age where information spreads rapidly through social media, the potential for misinformation is heightened, making it crucial for media outlets to adhere to ethical reporting standards.
The challenge lies in balancing the need for accurate reporting with the potential for sensationalism, which can exacerbate the fears and anxieties of affected communities. Responsible journalism should aim to provide a nuanced view of the situation, highlighting both the challenges and the resilience of local populations.
Conclusion
Kangana Ranaut’s recent comments serve as a reminder of the delicate balance between reporting on crises and the potential consequences of misrepresentation. As Himachal Pradesh grapples with the aftermath of devastating floods, the call for responsible media coverage becomes increasingly relevant. The tourism industry, a vital component of the state’s economy, faces significant challenges, and the portrayal of these events can influence public perception and recovery efforts.
As the state government works to provide relief and support to affected communities, it is essential for media outlets and influencers to approach their reporting with care and consideration. By doing so, they can contribute to a more informed and compassionate understanding of the situation, ultimately aiding in the recovery and resilience of the people of Himachal Pradesh.
