Kunal Kamra’s Joke on Eknath Shinde Sparks Political Clash Between Shiv Sena Factions:

A joke made by stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra about Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has escalated into a political standoff between the two rival factions of the Shiv Sena. The controversy has led to verbal threats, allegations, and a debate over freedom of expression.

Allegations and Threats Emerge from Shinde Faction

Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske accused Kamra of taking money from former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray. Mhaske warned of serious consequences, stating that Kamra "should not have stepped on the tail of a snake" and implied that party supporters would make it difficult for the comedian to move freely in the country.

Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) spokesperson Krishna Hegde criticized Kamra’s act, warning of "Shiv Sena treatment" for the comedian. Meanwhile, party leader Milind Deora described the joke as classist and disrespectful toward Shinde, highlighting the latter's rise from an auto-rickshaw driver to the leader of India’s second-largest state.

Sanjay Nirupam, also of the Shinde faction, issued a direct threat, stating he would “thrash” Kamra at 11 am on Monday.

Uddhav Thackeray Faction Defends Kamra’s Right to Speak

Reacting to the backlash, Uddhav faction leader Aaditya Thackeray questioned the state’s law and order and criticized the breaking of the stage where Kamra performed. He defended the content of Kamra’s joke, calling it “100% true” and said such reactions reflect insecurity.

Priyanka Chaturvedi also voiced her support, urging Kamra to "stay strong" and reaffirming the importance of free speech. She quoted Voltaire, supporting Kamra’s right to express himself, despite political backlash.

Incident Tied to 2022 Shiv Sena Split

During his performance at a hotel in Mumbai’s Khar, Kamra had parodied a song from the movie Dil To Pagal Hai, referring to Shinde as a “traitor.” The skit referenced the 2022 political rebellion, where Shinde broke away from Uddhav Thackeray, leading to a significant shift in Maharashtra politics.