Why Are Maharashtra Leaders Angry with Kunal Kamra? Know the Controversy
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Mumbai: Comedian Kunal Kamra has landed in controversy after making comments during a performance at The Habitat Studio in Khar, Mumbai, on Sunday. Kamra’s remarks, which allegedly targeted Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde, provoked outrage from Shinde’s supporters. In response, Shiv Sena workers vandalised the comedy club where Kamra performed and threatened to “teach him a lesson.”
What Did Kunal Kamra Say?
During his act, Kamra did not directly name Eknath Shinde but referred to him as a “rickshawallah” and a “traitor who stole someone’s father,” seemingly referencing the 2022 Shiv Sena split, where Shinde led a rebellion against Uddhav Thackeray. Kamra used a parody of a song from the movie Dil Toh Pagal Hai to mock Shinde, which offended many Shiv Sena supporters.
Shiv Sena Workers Vandalise Venue
On Sunday night, several Shiv Sena workers vandalised The Habitat Studio and the adjoining hotel. Following the incident, the Mumbai police registered an FIR against Kamra for making defamatory remarks and arrested Shiv Sena functionary Rahul Kanal along with 11 others involved in the vandalism. An FIR has also been registered against 17 unidentified individuals.
BMC Demolition Drive at Comedy Club
On Monday morning, the BMC launched a demolition drive at The Habitat Studio, citing illegal construction. BMC officials stated that the studio was built on encroached land between two hotels. Assistant Commissioner Vinayak Vispute said, “The studio owner had constructed temporary illegal sheds, which we are now removing. This does not require any prior notice.”
Political Reactions to the Controversy
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis condemned Kamra’s remarks and demanded an apology. Speaking at the Maharashtra legislature, Fadnavis said, “Freedom of expression comes with limitations. Kamra insulted Shinde and must apologise. Deliberate insults will not be tolerated.” He added, “Kamra showed the red book of the Constitution carried by Rahul Gandhi, but neither of them seem to have read it.”
Fellow Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar also weighed in, stating, “No one should go beyond the law and the Constitution. One should speak within limits. Differences of opinion may exist, but care must be taken to avoid situations that force police intervention.”
Fadnavis Vows Strict Action
Fadnavis assured strict action against Kamra, stating that those who cross the line will not be spared. “The 2024 election results have shown who is a ‘gaddar’ (traitor) and who is ‘khuddar’ (self-respecting). The people have validated Shinde’s leadership as the true heir of Bal Thackeray’s legacy,” he said.
Future Course of Action
The Mumbai police continue their investigation, and further arrests are expected. Meanwhile, the demolition of the studio has sparked further debate about freedom of expression and the consequences of crossing certain limits.
