Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India]: Maharashtra Minister of State for Home Yogesh Ramdas Kadam on Monday responded to stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra’s remarks about Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, stating that while the Constitution grants freedom of speech, it does not permit insulting individuals holding constitutional positions.
“The Constitution has provided freedom of speech. It doesn’t give you the right to insult those occupying Constitutional positions,” he said.
Regarding the recent vandalism at Habitat Comedy Club in Mumbai’s Khar area, Kadam assured that “whatever action is required will be taken.”
Shiv Sena’s Warning to Kunal Kamra
Earlier, Shiv Sena Yuva Sena (Shinde faction) General Secretary Rahool Kanal issued a strong message to Kunal Kamra, saying:
“Abhi tak toh ye trailer hai, picture abhi baki hai.”
Kanal further explained, “It is not about taking any law into your hands. It is purely about your self-respect. When it comes to elders or respectable citizens of the country… when your elders are targeted, you will target someone of that mentality… The message (for Kunal Kamra) is clear, ‘Abhi tak toh ye trailer hai, picture abhi baki hai.’ Whenever you are in Mumbai, you will get a good lesson in Shiv Sena style.”
Following this, an FIR was registered against Kanal and 19 others for allegedly vandalizing the Habitat Comedy Club where a live performance by stand-up comedian Rajat Sood was underway. The Shinde Sena’s youth faction allegedly forced the event to shut down and damaged the venue.
Police Action and FIR Details
According to Sub-Inspector Vijay from Khar police station, the FIR has been registered under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), 2023, including:
- Section 132, 189(2), 189(3), 190, 191(2), 324(5), 324(6), 223, 351(2), 352, 333, 37(1), and 135
- Sections 37(1) and 135 of the Maharashtra Police Act
Political and Legal Implications
This controversy has erupted as Shinde Sena leaders objected to Kunal Kamra’s new stand-up special, alleging that the comedian had “mocked” Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde.
The incident has further intensified the ongoing debate on freedom of speech, political satire, and the boundaries of criticism in India.