Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde (L) & Comedian Kunal Kamra (R) | File Pic & X (@kunalkamra88)
Mumbai: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde distanced himself from the recent vandalism at a Mumbai studio by his party workers in protest against comedian Kunal Kamra’s ‘gaddar‘ (traitor) remarks against him. However, he also invoked Newton’s third law, stating, “Every action has a reaction.” This is his first direct response to the controversy, which has sparked a political showdown in Maharashtra and reignited the debate on freedom of speech.
In an interview with BBC Marathi, Shinde questioned Kamra’s motives, suggesting that the comedian was acting at someone’s behest. “Freedom is important in a democracy, but making derogatory remarks about someone for personal agendas is unacceptable. Forget about me, what has he said about Modi ji, the former Chief Justice, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Home Minister Amit Shah and industrialists?” he asked.
Referring to Kamra’s past altercation with journalist Arnab Goswami, Shinde pointed out that the comedian has faced a flight ban for his behavior and accused him of disturbing public order. “He vitiates the atmosphere and creates a law and order issue,” he stated.
‘Vandalism Happened Due To Party Workers’ Emotions’: Eknath Shinde
When asked about the vandalism by his party workers, Shinde maintained that he does not endorse such acts. “Eknath Shinde is very sensitive. Many allegations are made against me, but I respond with my work. I do not support vandalism, but it happened due to party workers’ emotions. Every action has a reaction, but I don’t support it,” he said.
Shinde also alleged a larger political conspiracy behind Kamra’s remarks, suggesting that the Opposition was orchestrating such incidents. “Now even people have shown them (the Opposition), but they are not mending their ways. This is a deliberate conspiracy to insult people,” he claimed.
The controversy erupted due to Kamra’s show at Mumbai’s Habitat studio last month, where he performed a parody of the song ‘Bholi Si Surat’ from Dil To Pagal Hai, using the word ‘gaddar’ (traitor) to mock Shinde. The jibe referenced Shinde’s 2022 rebellion against Uddhav Thackeray, which led to the collapse of the Maharashtra government and a split in the Shiv Sena.
Kunal Kamra Refuses To Apologise For His Remarks
Following the show, multiple FIRs were registered against Kamra. The comedian, however, has refused to apologise and has stated that he will fully cooperate with any legal action. He has also questioned whether the law will be applied equally to those who vandalised the studio and the civic authorities who partially demolished it, citing building violations. The case continues to fuel political tensions in Maharashtra.
