Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has strongly reacted to the ongoing controversy surrounding comedian Kunal Kamra’s 'traitor' remark about Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Addressing the media on Monday, Fadnavis criticised Kamra for misusing his freedom as a stand-up comedian and made it clear that such remarks would not be tolerated. He also demanded an apology from Kamra for his comments.
Fadnavis stated, "There is freedom to do stand-up comedy, but that does not mean he can say whatever he wants. The people of Maharashtra have already decided who the real traitor is. Kunal Kamra should apologize, as this will not be tolerated. While comedy is allowed, using it as a tool to deliberately defame our Deputy Chief Minister is not acceptable."
Referring to Kamra’s social media post featuring the red Constitution book, Fadnavis said, "He has posted the same book that Rahul Gandhi once showed, but neither of them has actually read it. The Constitution grants freedom of speech, but that freedom comes with limitations. The people of Maharashtra made their choice in the 2024 Assembly elections. Those who betrayed the mandate and ideology of Balasaheb Thackeray were shown their place by the voters. Humour is welcome, but derogatory statements cannot be justified in the name of free speech. No one has the right to encroach on others’ freedom and ideology."
Sena Workers Vandalise Habitat Comedy Club
The controversy escalated when Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) workers vandalized the Habitat Comedy Club in Khar, where Kamra's show was filmed. A viral clip of his remarks angered Shinde’s supporters, leading to an attack on The Unicontinental Mumbai and the destruction of property at the Habitat Club, both located in the same building. Shiv Sena workers also gathered at Khar Police Station, filing a complaint against Kamra and demanding strict action.
Zero FIR Against Kunal Kamra
Meanwhile, the MIDC police in Mumbai's Andheri on Monday registered a zero FIR against Kamra for allegedly spreading false statements or rumours. The complaint was lodged by Shiv Sena (Shinde) MLA Murji Patel, who accused Kamra of making misleading and defamatory statements.
The case has been registered under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Section 353(1)(b) for publishing false statements, Section 352 for provoking a breach of peace and Section 356(2) for defamation, which criminalizes statements made with the intent to cause harm.
Kamra’s remarks on the Shiv Sena split and Deputy CM Shinde have sparked a major political storm, with the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) warning of further protests if he does not issue an apology.
