Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Demands Central Protection for Kunal Kamra Amid FIRs Over Eknath Shinde Remark

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut has called on the central government to extend special protection to stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra, who is currently under scrutiny for his satirical remarks about Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Raut likened Kamra’s situation to that of actor Kangana Ranaut, who received central protection in 2020 during a similar political controversy.

Kamra Faces Legal Heat for Satirical Remark

Kamra has been booked under multiple FIRs for calling Eknath Shinde a "traitor" during a performance, which led to the vandalism of a studio by Shiv Sena workers last weekend. In response, Mumbai Police issued two notices to Kamra, summoning him for questioning.

However, on Friday, the Madras High Court granted Kamra interim anticipatory bail, offering him temporary legal protection.

Raut: Artists Deserve Freedom, Not Intimidation

Speaking to reporters, Raut said Kamra is an artist, poet, and satirist, just like Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi, whose FIR was recently quashed by the Supreme Court. He urged Kamra to appear before Mumbai Police to clarify his position but also insisted that he deserves the same central protection provided to Ranaut during her fallout with the Shiv Sena in 2020.

Flashback: Kangana Ranaut and the 2020 Controversy

In 2020, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) demolished a portion of Ranaut's bungalow in Bandra, citing illegal alterations. The move sparked a major controversy while Uddhav Thackeray was Chief Minister. Amid escalating tensions, the Centre extended security cover to Ranaut, who is now a BJP MP from Himachal Pradesh.

Union Minister Justifies Summons Against Kamra

Union Information & Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw addressed the matter during the Times Now Summit, stating that legal actions must proceed if warranted by law.

“If the law of the land requires it, it should be done,” he said, when asked if the police summons to Kamra was excessive.

Vaishnaw added that while the Constitution grants freedom of speech, these rights are not absolute and come with safeguards.

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