Kangana Ranaut Expresses Regret in Court Over 2020 Tweet Targeting Elderly Farmer Activist

Actor and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut on Monday appeared before a Bathinda court and expressed regret over her controversial 2020 tweet that allegedly defamed 73-year-old farmer activist Mahinder Kaur during the farmers’ protest.

The defamation case dates back to December 2020, when Ranaut shared a post mistaking Kaur for Shaheen Bagh protester Bilkis Bano, and claimed that the woman was “available for ₹100” to attend protests. The tweet sparked outrage and led to a criminal complaint under Sections 499 and 500 of the Indian Penal Code.

Speaking to reporters after the hearing, Ranaut said she felt relieved to have personally clarified her position. “I feel very nice after coming to Bathinda today. I have a lot of respect for Mataji (Mahinder Kaur). I sent a message to her husband for the misunderstanding,” she said.

In court, Ranaut’s counsel stated that the actor had not created the meme but only shared it. The defence argued that her post was “not intended to hurt anyone’s sentiments” and that she was willing to offer an apology. Ranaut maintained, “It was a general meme, not something I wrote myself.”

However, the Supreme Court had earlier refused to quash the case, noting that her tweet added “spice” and was not a “simple retweet.” The court observed that Ranaut’s remarks carried personal commentary, making her accountable for their impact.

Mahinder Kaur did not attend Monday’s proceedings due to health reasons. Her husband appeared instead, stating he would consult with farmer union members before taking a final decision on a possible settlement.

The Bathinda court has scheduled the next hearing for November 24, when both parties are expected to discuss reconciliation options.