Kunal Kamra Gaddar Row: The stand-up comedian has filed a petition before the high court through the e-filing system, stating that he has been receiving multiple threats following his comedy show. His counsel, V. Suresh, requested an urgent hearing on the matter, and the court has reportedly scheduled it for hearing at the end of the board.
Comedian Kunal Kamra Approaches Court Following Multiple FIRs Over His Remarks on Eknath Shinde
Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has moved the Madras High Court seeking transit anticipatory bail after multiple FIRs were lodged against him for his remarks on Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. The comedian, known for his outspoken views, filed the petition via the e-filing system, citing severe threats he has been receiving since the show aired.
Kamra’s Plea: ‘False Framing and Harassment’
Kamra’s legal counsel, V Suresh, has sought an urgent hearing, and the court has reportedly listed the matter for hearing at the end of the board. In his plea, Kamra asserted his innocence, claiming that the charges against him are fabricated. He further argued that the FIRs were filed with the intent to “harass and intimidate” him, aiming to “censor an artist” who was merely exercising his fundamental right to freedom of speech.
Safety Concerns: ‘Fear for Life After Going to Mumbai’
Highlighting his safety concerns, Kamra stated that he has been residing in Tamil Nadu since 2021 and now seeks inter-state anticipatory bail for the next few weeks, given the upcoming public holidays. He emphasized that he and his close ones have been receiving continuous death threats, leaving him fearful about his scheduled visit to Mumbai on March 31.
Mumbai Police Summons and Shiv Sena’s Reaction
On Wednesday, Mumbai’s Khar police station directed Kamra to appear for questioning on March 25. However, the comedian requested a week’s extension to cooperate with the investigation. The FIRs were lodged after Kamra allegedly mocked Deputy CM Shinde in his comedy act by using a popular Hindi song. However, Kamra clarified that he did not mention anyone’s name during the act.
The controversy escalated when Shiv Sena workers vandalized the venue where Kamra had performed. Several party leaders warned the comedian, stating that he would be “taught a lesson in Shiv Sena style.” Reacting to the viral clips from the show, Shinde remarked, “Freedom of speech is there. We understand satire. But there should be a limit. This is like taking ‘supari’ (contract) to speak against someone.”
The Larger Debate: Comedy, Free Speech, and Political Backlash
Kamra’s case reignites the broader debate about the boundaries of free speech in India, especially when it comes to satire and political criticism. While some argue that comedians should have the freedom to express their views without fear of persecution, others believe that there must be a level of decorum when referencing political figures.
As the legal proceedings unfold, all eyes will be on the Madras High Court’s decision regarding Kamra’s anticipatory bail plea. The outcome could set a precedent for similar cases involving artistic expression and political dissent in the country.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
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