The controversy surrounding stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra’s remarks on Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has escalated further, with Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel filing an FIR against him at the MIDC police station.
Murji Patel’s Warning to Kamra
Patel has demanded strict action against Kamra and warned that if he does not apologize within two days, he will face consequences.
- “We have filed an FIR against Kunal Kamra for his comments against our leader Eknath Shinde. We have demanded quick action against him,” Patel told media.
- “I want to tell him to apologize within two days, otherwise Shiv Sainiks will not let him move freely in Mumbai. If he is seen anywhere in public, we will paint his face black…”
- Patel further stated that he would raise the issue in the Maharashtra Assembly and urged the State Home Minister to take immediate action against Kamra.
Earlier Vandalism of Habitat Comedy Club
This development follows Shiv Sena workers vandalizing the Habitat Comedy Club in Khar on Sunday, where Kamra frequently performs. The attack was reportedly in response to his latest YouTube video, in which he allegedly mocked Eknath Shinde.
Shiv Sena Leaders’ Statements
Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske also slammed Kamra, calling him a “hired comedian” who was paid to criticize Eknath Shinde.
- “Kunal Kamra cannot freely go anywhere in India. Shiv Sainiks will show him his place,” Mhaske told media.
- “Shiv Sena (UBT) has no leaders left to comment on Shinde, so they are hiring people like Kamra for the job.”
Shiv Sena (UBT) Defends Kamra
On the other hand, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi backed Kamra, calling the actions against him an attack on freedom of speech.
- In a post on X (formerly Twitter), she wrote: “Dear Kunal, stand strong. The man & the gang you exposed will go after you & so will his bikau people, but do understand the residents of the state share this sentiment! And like Voltaire said— I will defend to death your right to speak your mind.”
What’s Next?
With an FIR filed, vandalism reported, and threats issued, the controversy is likely to escalate further. Whether Kunal Kamra will issue an apology or face legal action remains to be seen.