Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India]: Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has been summoned by Khar Police to appear before the investigating officer at 11 AM today in connection with an FIR filed against him. However, Mumbai Police confirmed that Kamra is not currently in the city.
FIR Against Kunal Kamra
The case against Kamra was initially registered by MIDC police, but it was later transferred to Khar Police for further investigation. The FIR pertains to remarks Kamra allegedly made about Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde during his recent stand-up comedy show.
Following his comments, Shiv Sena workers vandalized a Mumbai venue on Sunday, protesting against Kamra’s remarks about Shinde.
Kunal Kamra Responds: ‘I Will Not Apologize’
In response to the controversy, Kunal Kamra issued a statement on his official social media handle, making it clear that he will not apologize for his act.
“An entertainment venue is merely a platform. A space for all sorts of shows. Habitat (or any other venue) is not responsible for my comedy, nor does it have any power or control over what I say or do. Neither does any political party. Attacking a venue for a comedian’s words is as senseless as overturning a lorry carrying tomatoes because you didn’t like the butter chicken you were served,” Kamra said.
Questions Fairness of Law Enforcement
Kamra also stated that he is willing to cooperate with the police but questioned whether the law would be applied fairly to those who vandalized the venue in response to his jokes.
“I am willing to cooperate with the police and courts for any lawful action taken against me. But will the law be fairly and equally deployed against those who have decided that vandalism is the appropriate response to being offended by a joke?” he asked.
He also criticized the BMC (Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation) for allegedly demolishing parts of the venue without prior notice.
“Perhaps for my next venue, I will opt for Elphinstone Bridge or any other structure in Mumbai that’s in need of speedy demolition,” he remarked sarcastically.