Studio Vandalised, Threats Follow As Kunal Kamra Releases New Video
Mumbai witnessed fresh tensions as workers of the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction vandalised a performance venue in Khar following comedian Kunal Kamra’s latest video. The video, posted on YouTube, featured Kamra satirising Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, indirectly referring to him as a “traitor.” The remark was linked to Shinde’s 2022 rebellion against Uddhav Thackeray, which split the Shiv Sena. While Kamra did not directly name Shinde, the video quickly went viral, drawing strong reactions from Shinde’s supporters.
Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel filed a complaint against Kamra, leading to a first information report (FIR). Patel warned that Kamra must apologise to Shinde within two days or face consequences. “If he is seen anywhere in public, we will paint his face black,” Patel declared, stating that the issue would be taken up in the Maharashtra Assembly. Meanwhile, an FIR was also registered against Shiv Sena youth wing leader Rahool Kanal and 19 others for vandalising the Habitat, the venue where Kamra had performed. The venue’s organisers condemned the attack, stating, “Artists are solely responsible for their views and creative choices. Violence cannot be the answer.”
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis defended the backlash against Kamra, arguing that while stand-up comedy is allowed, it cannot be used to defame public figures. “The people of Maharashtra have already decided who the traitor is. Kunal Kamra should apologise. Freedom of speech has limitations,” he stated. Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar took a more measured stance, urging restraint. “Nobody should go beyond the law and Constitution. Differences of opinion should not require police intervention,” he said. Maharashtra’s Minister of State for Home, Yogesh Ramdas Kadam, echoed the sentiment, stating that freedom of speech does not extend to insulting constitutional authorities.
Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske intensified the threats against Kamra, alleging that the comedian was “hired” to attack Shinde’s reputation. “Let alone Maharashtra, Kunal Kamra will not be able to move freely anywhere in India. We will make sure he is not free to perform,” he warned. Rahool Kanal added, “This is just a trailer. If anyone insults our leaders, we will not spare them.” However, opposition leaders criticised the violent response. NCP-SCP MLA Rohit Pawar noted that political satire had long been part of Indian politics. “Balasaheb Thackeray himself was subjected to satire, but he never reacted this way. Leaders should educate their followers instead of encouraging violence,” he remarked.
Congress leader Atul Londhe strongly condemned the vandalism, arguing that if politicians were so sensitive to stand-up comedy, they should consider banning the entire art form. “This is against freedom of speech and the Constitution. If offended, they should file a complaint rather than resort to threats and violence,” he stated.
As tensions escalate, Kamra has yet to respond to the threats or legal actions against him.
