Kunal Kamra Says He Won’t Apologise for Mocking Eknath Shinde Amid Controversy: Reports

Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has reportedly told police he does not regret his remarks against Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and will not apologise unless directed by a court, according to media reports on Monday. The comments, made during a comedy show, have sparked vandalism by Shiv Sena workers and a heated debate on freedom of expression. Kamra’s stance comes despite a demand for an apology from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

During a performance at Habitat Studio in Mumbai’s Khar, Kamra called Shinde a “traitor” through a parody of the song Bholi Si Surat from the Bollywood film Dil To Pagal Hai. The comedian was referring to Shinde’s 2022 rebellion against Uddhav Thackeray’s MVA government. The clip went viral on Sunday evening, drawing sharp criticism from Shinde’s Shiv Sena faction.

Outraged by Kamra’s remarks, Shiv Sena workers vandalised the Habitat Studio where the show was recorded. Twelve party members were arrested in connection with the incident but were later released on bail on Monday. The party has also warned of legal action against the comedian, escalating the controversy into a political storm.

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According to an NDTV report, Kamra told the police he does not regret his comments and will only apologise if ordered by a court. India Today reported that while Kamra remains defiant, he assured authorities he would adhere to the law. The comedian’s refusal to apologise comes after CM Fadnavis publicly demanded an apology, condemning the remarks.

The incident has reignited debates over the boundaries of free speech in India. Kamra, a known critic of the BJP-led government, has often courted controversy with his political commentary. The vandalism and arrests have drawn attention to the growing friction between artistic expression and political sensitivities in Maharashtra.

With legal action looming and public discourse intensifying, the controversy is far from over. The courts may soon play a pivotal role in deciding Kamra’s next steps, while further reactions from political leaders and the public are expected as the situation unfolds.