Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai

Mumbai, Apr 3: Rahool Kanal, the social media chief of Shiv Sena, has urged Big Tree Entertainment Pvt Ltd, the parent company of online ticketing giant BookMyShow, to discontinue providing a platform for comedian Kunal Kamra's shows.

In a letter dated April 2, Kanal highlighted that allowing ticket sales for Kamra’s events could be perceived as promoting divisive rhetoric, potentially harming public sentiment and order in Mumbai.

Kanal stated that Kunal Kamra has previously utilized BookMyShow for his events despite his alleged history of “habitual criminal behaviour” and targeting prominent political figures including the Prime Minister of India and various Chief Ministers. He accused Kamra of engaging in a “sustained campaign of vilification and defamation” with “ulterior motives that extend beyond humour or satire.”

“Kamra’s provocative and malicious statements consistently cross ethical and legal boundaries, hurting public sentiments and threatening social harmony,” Kanal said, adding that providing him with a platform may inadvertently contribute to social unrest.

The letter comes in the backdrop of recent controversies surrounding Kamra’s comments about Shiv Sena leader and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, whom he referred to as a “traitor.”

According to Kanal, BookMyShow, as a responsible organization headquartered in Mumbai, must act in the interest of maintaining peace and harmony. He urged the platform to reconsider promoting Kamra’s shows moving forward.

Meanwhile, the Mumbai Police have filed three cases against Kamra, although the Madras High Court has granted him temporary protection from arrest. Authorities are continuing their investigation, including recording statements from staff present during the show's filming. Despite multiple summonses, Kamra has yet to appear before the Mumbai Police for questioning.