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Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra is under fire from Maharashtra ministers after he refused to apologise for his joke about Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde during a comedy show in Mumbai.
Shiv Sena Leaders Issue Warnings
Shiv Sena leader and Maharashtra minister Gulab Raghunath Patil strongly reacted, saying Kamra would face consequences if he didn’t apologise. “Shiv Sena won’t leave him… If he doesn’t apologise, kabhi toh bahar aayega na, kaha chupega? (He will come out someday, where will he hide?),” he warned.
Minister of State for Home Yogesh Ramdas Kadam also condemned Kamra’s joke, stating, “He will be punished. Insulting the Supreme Court, PM, or Hindu Gods won’t be tolerated in Maharashtra.”
Kunal Kamra Stands Firm
Despite the warnings, Kamra issued a statement on social media, refusing to apologise. Meanwhile, Mumbai police summoned him for questioning, but he was not in the city. An FIR was registered against him, transferring the case to Khar Police.
What Was the Controversy?
Kamra’s joke reportedly mocked Shinde’s political journey, calling him a "gaddar" (traitor) in a parody of a Bollywood song. He also made remarks on Maharashtra’s recent political developments, including the Shiv Sena and NCP splits.
Eknath Shinde’s Response
Shinde compared Kamra’s act to taking a "supari" (contract) to speak against someone and stressed the need for limits in satire. However, he also distanced himself from the vandalism by Shiv Sena members at the Habitat Comedy Club, where Kamra performed.
The controversy has sparked debates on freedom of speech and political satire in India.
