Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai
Mumbai, Apr 7: Controversial stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has approached the Bombay High Court seeking the quashing of an FIR filed against him for allegedly referring to Maharashtra deputy chief minister and Shiv Sena president Eknath Shinde as a ‘gaddar’ (traitor) during a recent comedy performance.
Kamra, known for his politically charged satire, stated in his petition that the FIR violates his fundamental rights to freedom of expression under article 19 and the right to life under article 21 of the Constitution. The High Court is expected to hear the matter on April 21.
The move comes after the Madras High Court granted him interim protection from arrest until April 7. However, Kamra has already skipped three summons issued by the Mumbai Police.
The controversy erupted after Kamra performed a parody of the popular Bollywood track ‘Bholi Si Surat’ in his show, where he likened Shinde to a traitor. The term ‘gaddar’ has also been repeatedly used by Uddhav Thackeray and his son Aditya since the 2022 political rebellion that saw Shinde split the Shiv Sena and bring down the Thackeray-led government.
The satirical jab triggered backlash from Shinde supporters, leading to the vandalisation of the studio where Kamra’s show was shot. The issue snowballed into a political uproar with Mahayuti alliance members demanding an apology in the state legislature.
A breach of privilege motion was also moved against Kamra in the Maharashtra Legislative Council, with BJP legislator Pravin Darekar condemning the song as ‘personal and insulting.’
Reacting to the controversy, deputy CM Shinde distanced himself from the vandalism but maintained that provocative speech has consequences. “Action has a reaction,” he said, accusing Kamra of making the remark under a ‘supari’ (contract).
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, meanwhile, assured strict action, warning that misuse of free speech under the Constitution would not be tolerated.
Unfazed by the political storm, Kamra declared he would not apologise. In a defiant post on X, he said, “Our right to freedom of speech and expression is not only to be used to fawn over the powerful. I don’t fear this mob, and I will not hide under my bed.”
He further pointed out the irony in the police serving notices to audience members who had attended his show, questioning the growing intolerance toward satire.
As the case heads to court, the debate around freedom of expression, satire, and political sensitivity continues to gain momentum in Maharashtra.