Kangana Ranaut Softens Stand on Gen Z After 'Gutter Generation' Remark, Calls Youth 'India's Pride'
Days after calling Gen Z the "gutter generation," BJP MP Kangana Ranaut has praised the youth as "India's power" and said they should not be judged by the actions of a few individuals. She highlighted the contributions of students and athletes while distancing the larger generation from the controversy surrounding recent protests.
New Delhi: BJP MP and actor Kangana Ranaut has softened her stance on Generation Z just days after her controversial "gutter generation" remarks sparked widespread criticism. Addressing reporters outside Parliament on Friday, Ranaut said Gen Z is "our power" and a source of pride for the country, adding that the actions of a few individuals should not define an entire generation.
Speaking on the issue, the Mandi MP said only a small group of people were responsible for the controversial behaviour that had drawn attention, while the majority of Gen Z continued to contribute positively to society.
"Gen Z is a part of the government. It is their mandate, which our government has been fulfilling for years. Gen Z are great. Only a handful of people are being used to judge the entire generation," Ranaut said.
She also praised young people participating in constructive activities, including students protesting in Jharkhand over recruitment examination issues and athletes who have brought medals for India. Ranaut argued that the generation should be judged by its contributions to society rather than viral social media content or the actions of a few individuals.
At the same time, she urged young people to actively participate in causes such as environmental campaigns and supporting traditional handloom workers, saying these efforts would better represent the true spirit of Gen Z.
Controversial Remarks Triggered Backlash
Ranaut's latest comments come just days after she posted a series of controversial Instagram stories targeting student protesters associated with the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which had led demonstrations over the NEET-UG paper leak and examination irregularities.
In those posts, she referred to Gen Z as the "gutter generation," criticised sections of young people for allegedly promoting drugs, alcohol, and irresponsible behaviour, and described protest videos as "puke-inducing." She also mocked the protesters' use of cockroach imagery and accused them of spreading "filth" and damaging public property.
The remarks drew criticism from opposition leaders, with several demanding an apology and accusing the BJP MP of unfairly stereotyping an entire generation.
Ranaut's latest statement marks a significant shift from her earlier position, signalling a more conciliatory tone towards India's youth while maintaining criticism of a small section involved in the protests.