Kunal Kamra-Eknath Shinde Controversy: FIR Against Comedian Kunal Kamra For ‘Defamatory’ Remarks; 40 Shiv Sainiks Booked For Vandalizing Venue Amid Political Uproar
Kunal Kamra-Eknath Shinde Controversy: FIR Against Comedian Kunal Kamra For ‘Defamatory’ Remarks; 40 Shiv Sainiks Booked For Vandalizing Venue Amid Political Uproar
Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has found himself at the center of controversy following his recent performance in Mumbai’s Khar area. During his show, Kamra took a dig at Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde by tweaking the lyrics of a song from Dil To Pagal Hai to hint at Shinde’s political move in 2022. The reference was directed at Shinde’s defection from Uddhav Thackeray’s leadership, which resulted in a major political shift within the Shiv Sena party.
A video of Kamra’s act soon went viral, drawing sharp criticism from members of Shinde’s Shiv Sena faction. Party leader Rahul Kanal lodged a police complaint at Khar Police Station, alleging that Kamra’s remarks were insulting towards Shinde. Reacting strongly, Shiv Sena supporters stormed the venue where the performance took place, confronted the management, and reportedly vandalized property. Additionally, a nearby hotel where the show was filmed also faced backlash from enraged party workers.
The controversy triggered mixed responses from political leaders. Sanjay Raut, from the Shiv Sena (UBT) faction, shared the video on social media with the caption “Kunal Ka Kamal,” seemingly in support of Kamra. Meanwhile, Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske issued a warning to Kamra, stating that party workers would track him down anywhere in the country and even suggested he might be forced to leave India. Aaditya Thackeray condemned the attacks on the venue, labeling them an act of cowardice and questioning the state’s law-and-order situation.
This incident has once again raised concerns over freedom of speech in India. While Kamra’s supporters defend his right to satire, critics argue that such statements disrespect public figures and could incite unrest. The debate over artistic expression versus political sensitivities continues.
Image Source - PR
