Genesis of the controversy

The latest exchange stems from Kangana's Instagram post on Monday, in which she described the Gen Z protesters' language as "puke-inducing" and "crass" while questioning their upbringing.

"You call yourself cockroaches and look/behave like them as well... I am scarred from these reels. I need some healing, digital detox," she wrote.

Targeting women among the protesters, Ranaut went on to label them "Generation Gutter", accusing them of glorifying drugs and alcohol, living off their parents, and contributing little to society.

The comments triggered criticism from opposition leaders and student groups, with some questioning whether the BJP MP even knew the full form of NEET — the medical entrance examination whose alleged paper leak sparked the nationwide protests.

Photo: Screen-grab

'Why should we take her seriously?'

Responding to Ranaut's comments on Tuesday, CJP spokesperson Saurav Das dismissed the actor-politician's criticism, saying she lacked credibility even within her own party.

"Even people within Kangana Ranaut's own party don't pay much attention to her or take her seriously, so why should we? I don't think anyone in Gen Z, Gen Alpha or any younger generation takes her seriously or listens to what she says," he said.

Das also referred to Ranaut's earlier remarks about her experience as a first-time MP, where she had admitted she initially believed the role involved little work.

"She herself said she thought being an MP required very little work, but later realised how much effort it actually takes. That shows her level of seriousness. She calls us an 'unserious generation', yet she exposed her own lack of seriousness," he said.

'You are simply useless': Kangana Ranaut hits back

Hitting back sharply at Das, Kangana wrote in a fresh Instagram story: "The claims to be a hybrid school student I have no clue !! Yes I am in politics for past 2 years but I have been in public life for last 20 years, at his age I had 2 national awards, yes as a new parliamentarian I was overwhelmed with all the work because I am also a filmmaker + performing artist + producer + screen writer + entrepreneur."

She further added: "But some one like him who is totally useless and unemployed will never understand what it means to be in massive demand at all times at any age. Dear Saurav your issues are personal, you are not a student, you are simply useless, let's start with learning some skill. It's a good place to start."

Photo: Screen-grab