Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai

Mumbai, Apr 2: The Mumbai Police have issued a third summons to stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra over his alleged derogatory remarks targeting Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. The latest summons, delivered on Saturday, requires Kamra to appear before the authorities for questioning.

The complaint, filed by a Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) leader, alleges that Kamra’s comments—made during a recent stand-up performance and circulated on social media—were defamatory and intended to provoke discontent against the Chief Minister.

Despite two prior summons, Kamra reportedly sought additional time to respond, citing prior commitments. However, police officials have now cautioned that non-compliance could result in further legal proceedings.

Kamra, known for his sharp political satire, addressed the summons through social media, stating, “Comedy is meant to question power. If questioning the powerful is a crime, then I’m guilty.”

The development has drawn mixed reactions, with Kamra’s supporters decrying the police action as an attack on free speech, while members of the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) have insisted that defamatory comments against public figures must not go unpunished.

Legal experts suggest that Kamra could potentially face charges under sections of the Indian Penal Code related to defamation and promoting enmity between different groups.

The incident has once again ignited a debate over free speech and the increasing scrutiny faced by comedians and satirists across the country.