Kunal Kamra Refuses to Apologize for ‘Traitor’ Remark on Eknath Shinde, Says Only Court Can Compel Him:

Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has reportedly refused to apologize for calling Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde a "gaddar" (traitor), amid a rising political row. According to Mumbai Police sources cited by NDTV, Kamra said he stands by his statements and has no regrets.

Currently in Tamil Nadu, Kamra has also denied speculation that he was paid by the opposition to mock Shinde. Police sources revealed that Kamra is open to having his financial records reviewed to verify his claim.

Controversy Stemming from Parody Song Performance

Kamra sparked controversy after singing a parody of the 1997 Bollywood hit 'Bholi Si Surat', allegedly targeting Eknath Shinde. During the act, he referred to Shinde as a “gaddar,” referencing the 2022 political coup where Shinde led a rebellion against then Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, causing a split in the Shiv Sena and bringing down the Maha Vikas Aghadi government.

Multiple FIRs have been lodged against Kamra, including one based on a complaint filed by Maharashtra minister Pratap Sarnaik.

Political Reactions and Legal Stand

Kamra has reportedly told police he would only issue an apology if ordered by the court. This aligns with his longstanding stance on freedom of expression, often seen in his previous public controversies.

Reacting to the incident, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis acknowledged the importance of freedom of speech under the Constitution, but reminded that these rights are subject to reasonable restrictions.