Kunal Kamra Summoned by Mumbai Police Over Remarks on Deputy CM Eknath Shinde

Mumbai Police have issued a notice to stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra, summoning him in connection with a case involving alleged derogatory comments about Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Kamra has been asked to appear before Khar Police Station at 11 AM as part of the ongoing inquiry, according to official sources.

Parody Performance Sparks Political Backlash

The issue stems from a parody performance during Kamra’s recent stand-up act at the Habitat Comedy Club in Mumbai’s Khar area. During the set, Kamra mocked Shinde through a satirical rendition of a song from the Bollywood film Dil To Pagal Hai, referring to the deputy CM as a "gaddar" (traitor). He also referenced recent political turmoil in Maharashtra, including splits within the Shiv Sena and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP).

Eknath Shinde Responds, Calls for Boundaries on Free Speech

In reaction, Deputy CM Eknath Shinde acknowledged freedom of speech as a right but emphasized the need for limits. He compared Kamra's statements to taking a "supari" (contract) to insult someone and added that while satire is understood, there must be a boundary to public expression.

Shiv Sena Workers Vandalize Comedy Venue

Following the viral spread of Kamra’s performance clip, members of the Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction launched a protest. On Sunday night, they vandalized the Habitat Comedy Club and Hotel Unicontinental, where the event took place. The incident prompted police action, with an FIR filed against Kamra based on a complaint by Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel, citing alleged defamation.

Police Action Against Shiv Sena Workers

Mumbai Police registered a separate case against 40 Shiv Sena workers involved in the vandalism. Twelve individuals, including party functionary Rahul Kanal, were arrested. All were granted bail later the same day by a local court.

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