Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Mar 28: A group of 12 Shiv Sena workers, all supporters of Maharashtra deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, were arrested on Monday for vandalising the Habitat Studio in Mumbai’s Bandra on March 23. The attack came after a video of stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra, where he referred to Shinde as a “gaddar” (traitor), went viral. The accused were granted bail the same day.

Leading the group was local Sena leader Rahul Kanal, who has deep political and celebrity connections. Kanal, once close to Aaditya Thackeray, switched loyalties to Shinde’s camp in 2023 and now serves on the core committee of the Yuva Sena. Known for his ties to Bollywood and sports personalities, Kanal also runs a restaurant in Bandra.

Defending their actions, Kanal claimed they had no intention of vandalising the studio but reacted in the "heat of the moment" after an argument with the studio owner, Balraj. "We just wanted to talk, but his arrogance triggered the situation," Kanal said.

Among the arrested were key Sena figures, including corporator Chawari, labour union leader Sarmalkar, and several party office-bearers from Bandra and Khar. Many of them had previously been part of the undivided Shiv Sena before shifting to Shinde’s faction last year.

Kanal has now filed a fresh complaint against Kamra, alleging irregularities in his YouTube channel’s financial transactions and demanding an investigation.

While the vandalism has sparked political tensions, Shiv Sena workers involved in the act have shown no remorse, asserting that they “did what they were supposed to do.”