Kunal Kamra First Reaction After Controversy Over Eknath Shinde Joke: ‘I Don’t Fear This Mob’

Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra on Monday issued a defiant statement, refusing to apologise for his “traitor” jibe at Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, asserting his right to free speech. The remark, made during a comedy show, led to vandalism by Shiv Sena workers at the venue and a police case against Kamra. While CM Devendra Fadnavis demanded an apology, Uddhav Thackeray backed the comedian, escalating the political row.

In his first reaction to the controversy, Kamra wrote on X, “I will not apologise. I don’t fear this mob and I will not be hiding under my bed, waiting for this to die down.” He emphasized that venues like Habitat Club, where his show was recorded, are not responsible for his content, slamming Shiv Sena for targeting the studio with vandalism.

Kamra’s comment, calling Shinde a “traitor” for his 2022 rebellion against Uddhav Thackeray’s MVA government, sparked outrage among Shiv Sena workers. They vandalised Habitat Club, leading to the arrest of 12 party members, who were later granted bail on Monday. A case was also registered against around 40 workers, and a separate case was filed against Kamra.

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Kamra defended his actions, stating, “Our right to freedom of speech and expression is not only to be used to fawn over the powerful and rich… Your inability to take a joke at the expense of a powerful public figure does not change the nature of my right.” He added that he is willing to cooperate with police and courts for any lawful action.

CM Devendra Fadnavis demanded an apology, saying, “Eknath Shinde ji has been insulted, and this will not be tolerated. No stand-up comedian should have the right to call such a big leader a traitor.” Conversely, Shiv Sena UBT chief Uddhav Thackeray supported Kamra, stating, “I don’t think Kunal Kamra said anything wrong. Calling a ‘gaddar’ a ‘gaddar’ is not an attack on anyone.”

The controversy has sparked a broader debate on freedom of expression versus political sensitivities. With legal proceedings underway, including a probe into Kamra’s call records and bank statements as announced by junior home minister Yogesh Kadam, the outcome of the case and further political reactions are awaited.