Mumbai l
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has strongly reacted to comedian Kunal Kamra’s recent satirical performance, comparing his act to taking a ‘supari’ (contract) to target political figures. The controversy erupted after Kamra’s show led to Shiv Sena workers vandalizing the comedy club where it was filmed.
Shinde’s Reaction: ‘There Should Be a Limit’
Speaking at a BBC Marathi event, Shinde acknowledged the importance of free speech and satire but emphasized that “there should be a limit.” He warned that disrespectful remarks invite consequences.
“This is like taking ‘supari’ to speak against someone, The other person should also maintain a certain level, otherwise, action causes reaction.”
Eknath Shinde remarked. (Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister)
Shinde also accused Kamra of selectively targeting political figures, claiming this was not about free speech but “working for someone” – a veiled suggestion that Kamra was serving a political agenda.
The Controversy: Shiv Sena vs. Kamra
The controversy was triggered by Kamra’s parody of a Bollywood song, where he seemingly referred to Shinde as a “gaddar” (traitor)—a reference to Shinde’s 2022 defection from Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena to align with the BJP. His set also mocked the Shiv Sena and NCP splits, further fueling the political tension.
In retaliation, Shiv Sena members vandalized the Habitat Comedy Club in Khar on March 23, prompting police action against both Kamra and the vandals.
Kamra Refuses to Apologize
Despite political backlash, Kamra has remained defiant. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he dismissed the outrage and refused to back down.
“I will not apologise. What I said is exactly what Mr. Ajit Pawar said about Mr. Eknath Shinde. I don’t fear this mob & I will not be hiding under my bed, waiting for this to die down,”
-Kamra wrote.
Political Fallout: BJP Demands Apology, Opposition Defends Kamra
The Maharashtra political landscape is now sharply divided over the incident.
- Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has demanded an apology from Kamra, arguing that such remarks cross the line.
- Opposition leaders have come out in support of Kamra, criticizing the Shiv Sena’s violent response as an attack on free speech.
Bigger Picture: Political Satire vs. Political Power
Kamra is no stranger to controversy, having previously faced legal action for his satire on the Supreme Court, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, journalist Arnab Goswami, and corporate leaders. The recent backlash raises larger questions about the state of free expression in India, especially when it comes to political satire.
As Maharashtra heads toward key elections, this episode is likely to further deepen political divides. The question remains: Is political humor under threat, or should comedians tread more carefully in today’s polarized environment?
