Kunal Kamra’s Jibes at Eknath Shinde Trigger Controversy, Sena Workers Vandalise Mumbai Venue

Comedian Kunal Kamra has landed in controversy after his stand-up jibes targeting Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde went viral, prompting protests, vandalism, and legal action from Shiv Sena. The unrest escalated when Sena workers ransacked a Mumbai hotel where the show was recorded, while an FIR was filed against Kamra for allegedly defaming Shinde.

During his recent show Naya Bharat, Kunal Kamra took a dig at Eknath Shinde for splitting Shiv Sena and aligning with the BJP, calling him a “traitor” and singing a spoof song from Dil To Pagal Hai. While Kamra did not explicitly name Shinde in the viral clip, the references were clear, drawing sharp reactions. The comedian shared the clip on social media, amplifying its reach.

Shiv Sena leader Rahul Kanal filed a police complaint, terming Kamra’s remarks a “pre-planned criminal conspiracy” to malign Shinde’s reputation. “The statements hurt public sentiments and are unlawful,” the complaint stated, demanding strict action. On the ground, Sena workers protested in Mumbai, burning Kamra’s pictures and vandalising a hotel in Khar where the show was recorded.

ALSO READ | Encounter Erupts in J&K’s Kathua After Security Forces Intercept With Terrorists

Senior Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam threatened Kamra, saying, “We will thrash him tomorrow at 11 o’clock.” Sena MP Naresh Mhaske warned the comedian of being “chased out of India.” Meanwhile, Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders condemned the violence. Sanjay Raut called CM Devendra Fadnavis a “weak home minister,” while Aaditya Thackeray defended Kamra, stating the song “was 100% true.”

Kamra has not directly addressed the controversy but posted a photo of himself holding the Constitution, captioning it, “The only way forward.” The FIR against him, filed by Sena MLA Muraji Patel, includes charges of defamation and inciting public sentiment, adding to the legal pressure on the comedian.

As tensions rise, all eyes are on Kamra’s next move and whether the legal proceedings will escalate further. The incident has reignited debates on free speech versus political sensitivities, with potential for more protests or statements from both sides in the coming days.