Mumbai/Kolkata: Actor-turned-politician Kangana Ranaut has extended her vocal support to activist Samistha, who was recently arrested in West Bengal under controversial circumstances. Taking to social media, Kangana condemned the arrest and criticized Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s leadership, drawing a sharp comparison between the state’s current situation and that of authoritarian regimes.
“Arresting someone even after they have apologized sets a dangerous precedent,” Kangana remarked. “We cannot allow West Bengal to turn into another North Korea.”
कंगना का *समिष्ठा* को समर्थन 🔥✊
— Sudhir Mishra 🇮🇳 (@Sudhir_mish) June 1, 2025
कहा माफी मांगने के बाद भी किसी को उठाकर जेल में डाल देना ठीक नहीं-
बंगाल को उत्तर कोरिया ना बनाएं ममता बनर्जी, समिष्ठा को रिहा करना चाहिये!
pic.twitter.com/OPfc3usASH
Demand for Immediate Release
Kangana called for the immediate release of Samistha, stating that dissent in a democracy should not be met with jail time. She emphasized the importance of safeguarding freedom of expression and urged the state administration to act with fairness and restraint.
Background
While the details of Samistha’s case have sparked widespread debate, Kangana’s public endorsement adds to the growing criticism from several corners of the political spectrum. Many are questioning the proportionality of the action taken against Samistha, especially if a public apology had already been offered.
The controversy has once again ignited discussions about civil liberties in West Bengal and the larger role of political tolerance in democratic societies.
