AGENCY
NEW DELHI, Mar 31
The ongoing controversy surrounding stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra took another turn as Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction) leader Rahool Kanal declared that party cadres would welcome Kamra in a “Shiv Sena style” when he arrives in Mumbai. The statement comes after the Tamil Nadu High Court recently granted Kamra anticipatory bail in a case filed against him by the Mumbai police over his alleged remarks against Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
The controversy erupted after Kamra’s performance at ‘The Habitat’ studio in Mumbai, where he parodied a song from the Bollywood film Dil Toh Pagal Hai and allegedly referred to Shinde as a “gaddar” (traitor). Although Kamra did not explicitly name Shinde, his act was perceived as a direct attack on the Maharashtra leader. The performance sparked outrage among Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) workers, who vandalized ‘The Habitat’ studio premises in protest. As a result, the Mumbai police arrested 12 Shiv Sena workers, including Rahool Kanal, the General Secretary of the party’s youth wing.
Following their arrests, Shiv Sena workers visited a Mumbai police station on Monday to fulfil their bail conditions. Meanwhile, Kanal reiterated his stance, emphasizing that Kamra should face the legal consequences of his actions. Speaking to ANI, Kanal stated, “We welcome the Court’s verdict that gives Kunal Kamra relief, but it is only until April 7. He should come and face the law. No matter what protection he has there (in Tamil Nadu), whenever he comes to Mumbai, he will be welcomed in a good ‘Shiv Sena style.'” Kanal later clarified that his remark was not intended as a threat but was rooted in Mumbai’s cultural ethos of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ (Guest is God). He asserted that Kamra should follow legal procedures and cooperate with the authorities.
Currently residing in Villupuram, Tamil Nadu, Kamra has been granted anticipatory bail until April 7 by the Tamil Nadu High Court. The Mumbai police had issued summons to the comedian twice, urging him to appear for questioning in connection with the case. Additionally, cases registered against Kamra at Nashik Rural, Jalgaon, and Nashik (Nandgaon) police stations have now been transferred to the Khar police for further investigation.
Kamra, known for his politically charged comedy, frequently targets politicians and government policies. His latest performance in Mumbai, which contained satirical commentary on recent political developments in Maharashtra, has further escalated tensions between him and the state’s ruling leadership. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and other senior political figures strongly condemned Kamra’s act, viewing it as an attack on their leadership.
The controversy has reignited the debate on freedom of speech and expression in India. While supporters argue that comedians should be allowed to critique politicians without fear of reprisal, detractors believe that disrespectful remarks against elected leaders should have consequences.
As the case unfolds, all eyes remain on how Kamra navigates the legal battle and whether his return to Mumbai will indeed witness the promised ‘Shiv Sena style’ welcome.
