BJP MP Kangana Ranaut has ignited controversy with her recent comments following the tragic suicide of Bengaluru techie Atul Subhash.
Her remark that “in 99% of marriages, the men are at fault” has split public opinion as she spoke about the case.
On December 11, the actor-turned-politician expressed her shock at Subhash’s death, calling his final video “heart-wrenching.”
However, she criticized the situation, alleging it was tainted by “communism, socialism, and feminism” and argued that the actions of one wronged woman should not result in punishment for other women.
She stated, “The case is infested with communism, socialism, and feminism. The extortion of crores, which was beyond his capacity, is condemnable.
Nevertheless, we cannot use the example of a wrong woman to torture other women. In 99% of the marriages, the men are at fault,” as reported by ANI news agency.
Her statements have provoked a strong backlash on social media, with many users questioning her perspective. One commented, “Why has she given men the grace of just 1% fault? For her, nearly all men are culpable.
I used to admire her, but now I feel disappointed. We must fight our own battles while expecting little from the system.” Another user remarked, “She criticizes feminism while blaming men for most marriages as a typical neo-feminist.”
Others raised concerns about her lack of empirical support, asking, “Does she have any data to validate her assertions? Is she aware of the conviction rates in these cases? Does she know about the settlement rates?”
Context of the case These controversial comments have intensified the ongoing discussion regarding the misuse of family laws in India, particularly Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code, which addresses cruelty against married women.
Atul Subhash, a 30-year-old engineer, was found dead in his home on December 9. Before his passing, he left behind a 24-page suicide note and a 90-minute video accusing his estranged wife and her family of extortion, harassment, and falsely accusing him of criminal behavior.
He claimed that his wife demanded ₹3 crore in a settlement and ₹2 lakh monthly for child support, even though she was employed with Accenture, adding that the pressure became overwhelming and contributed to his decision to end his life.
Political responses In light of Subhash’s death, BJP leader Jagadish Shettar called for a thorough investigation into the case. “This needs to be rigorously examined.
The state government must take this matter very seriously, and those responsible should face consequences,” he declared. Additionally, BJP MP Tejasvi Surya emphasized the necessity to review family laws, especially Section 498A, which has faced scrutiny for potential misuse.
He stated, “…The time has come to rethink many of these family-related laws and, where feasible, introduce gender neutrality to safeguard both partners in a marriage.” “The family is an essential institution. It serves as the foundation of society. Legislation that can be misused by one partner poses a threat to the institution of family and could lead to serious social consequences if left unaddressed,” Surya added. Subhash’s death has rekindled public discourse surrounding the misuse of family laws, with critics contending that laws designed to protect women are being exploited for personal agendas. The incident has led to renewed calls for reforms to ensure fairness for both men and women in family legal matters.
