Kunal Kamra’s Legal Team Seeks 7 Days To Respond to Mumbai Police Summons Over Defamatory Remarks Against Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde | File Pic & X (@kunalkamra88)
Mumbai: Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra’s legal team has sought seven days to respond to a summons from Mumbai Police over alleged defamatory remarks against Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
About The Controversy
The controversy erupted after Kamra posted a satirical video on social media earlier this week, sparking a heated debate on free speech, political satire, and legal accountability. As if the uproar wasn’t enough, Kamra escalated matters by releasing a parody video titled Hum Honge Kangal, a reworked version of Hum Honge Kamyaab, the Hindi adaptation of We Shall Overcome.
The video critiques India’s economic conditions with lyrics such as Mann mein andhvishwas, desh ka satyanash, which translates to “Blind faith in our minds, destruction of the nation.”
Kunal Kamra Refuses To Apologize
On March 24, Kamra refused to apologize, citing his right to free expression. “Your inability to take a joke at the expense of a powerful public figure does not change the nature of my right,” he stated. He also alleged that his phone number was leaked, leading to harassing calls, and posted a follow-up video juxtaposing the vandalism at a comedy venue with his parody song.
The incident has reignited discussions on the boundaries of political satire in India. While some view Kamra’s video as a legitimate critique, others argue it crossed into personal defamation. Critics accuse him of carrying out a supari, or contract job of sorts, against the Maharashtra and Delhi establishments while conveniently ignoring the nowdefunct INDIA bloc. Legal experts note that the case could test free speech precedents, particularly the protection of parody under Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution.
As tensions persist, the focus remains on whether Kamra’s legal team will challenge the defamation charges or seek a resolution through dialogue. For now, the comedian’s refusal to back down underscores a broader clash between artistic expression and political sensitivity in India’s evolving democratic landscape.
The controversy deepened further when Kamra referenced Shinde’s 2022 split from the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena to form a rival faction. During a performance at Mumbai’s Habitat Comedy Club, he labeled the deputy chief minister a gaddar, or traitor. The video, which has amassed over 4.3 million views, triggered immediate backlash from Shinde’s supporters.
The Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) condemned the video, and on March 24, party workers vandalized the Habitat Comedy Club, tearing down posters and demanding an apology. Mumbai Police registered a defamation case against Kamra based on a complaint by Shiv Sena MLA Raju Waghmare, who accused the comedian of “insulting a constitutional post.” Kamra was summoned to appear before the Khar Police Station but sought a seven-day extension through his lawyer, which was granted.
Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde Weighs In
On March 25, Deputy Chief Minister Shinde weighed in, saying, “Freedom of speech exists. We understand satire. But there should be a limit. This is like taking a supari to speak against someone.” Maharashtra Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis echoed this sentiment, stating, “Legal action will follow due process.” The incident has polarized political figures. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut defended Kamra, saying, “He won’t apologize. If you have to act against him, take lawful steps.”
Congress leaders, including MLA Vijay Wadettiwar, slammed the government’s response, calling the vandalism “unlawful” and asserting that “a government should be able to take criticism.” Conversely, BJP MP Kangana Ranaut accused Kamra of “disrespecting leadership” under the guise of comedy, while Union Minister Ramdas Athawale demanded an apology, saying, “Legal action should be taken.”
Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske even alleged that Kamra’s remarks were financially motivated to divert attention from the Disha Salian case, though no evidence was provided. Supporters, including fellow comedians and influencers, praised Kamra’s stance, with one calling it “real courage.”
Meanwhile, Shiv Sena leaders warned of consequences, with Minister Gulab Patil stating, “If he doesn’t apologize, we will speak to him in our own style.” Mumbai Police confirmed an initial probe into the defamation case, stating that further action would follow after Kamra’s response. Authorities have yet to comment on investigating the alleged death threats or the leaking of Kamra’s phone number.
