Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 31: Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Monday claimed that Maharashtra state cabinet ministers are threatening stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra with calls to “shoot and hang him immediately” over his controversial remarks about Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
Addressing a press conference, Raut expressed concerns over Kamra’s safety and criticized Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis for allegedly allowing “lawlessness” to prevail.
“Ministers in the state cabinet are openly threatening Kunal Kamra. They are demanding that he be shot and hanged immediately. All this lawlessness is happening, and CM Devendra Fadnavis is silently watching,” Raut stated.
Raut reiterated his demand for special protection for Kamra, citing the case of BJP MP Kangana Ranaut, who was provided security during her conflict with the Shiv Sena.
“I demand that the Maharashtra government provide special protection to Kunal Kamra. Kangana Ranaut was also given security when she had issues with us,” Raut added.
Three more complaints have been filed against Kamra at Khar police station for his alleged remarks against Eknath Shinde. The complaints come from the Mayor of Jalgaon city, a hotelier, and a businessman from Nashik, according to Mumbai Police.
Kamra has been summoned to appear at Khar police station on March 31 for questioning, following an FIR filed by Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel. This marks the third summons issued to him, as he failed to appear in response to the previous two.
On Friday, the Madras High Court granted Kamra interim anticipatory bail until April 7. Justice Sunder Mohan issued the order with conditions after Kamra approached the court, citing threats against him following his satirical comments.