Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has been granted interim anticipatory bail by the Madras High Court following legal troubles over his joke about Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. The bail decision comes amid a heated controversy surrounding Kamra’s recent performance in Mumbai, which led to protests, vandalism, and police action.
Kamra Fears Arrest, Moves Court for Protection
Kunal Kamra, 36, informed the court that he has been residing in Tamil Nadu since 2021 and expressed concerns about being arrested by Mumbai Police. His plea for anticipatory bail was filed in response to multiple summons issued by the Mumbai Police over his remarks on Shinde.
The controversy erupted after Kamra performed a parody song targeting Shinde at the Habitat Comedy Club in Khar, Mumbai. His act did not sit well with members of the Shiv Sena, leading to violent protests. The club and the hotel where it is located were vandalized by Shiv Sena supporters, prompting police action against both Kamra and the attackers.
Following a complaint filed by Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel, Kamra was booked by the Khar Police for allegedly making defamatory remarks against the deputy CM. Mumbai Police have summoned him twice, with the latest notice requiring him to appear before authorities on March 31.
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At the same time, police arrested 12 Shiv Sena members, including party leader Rahool Kanal, for their involvement in the attack on the comedy venue. The incident has sparked debates on freedom of expression and the increasing intolerance towards satire in India.
As media attention intensified, Kamra took to social media to criticize mainstream news outlets. In a post on X, he wrote, “The mainstream media at this point is nothing but a miscommunication arm of the ruling party… If they all shut shop from tomorrow till eternity, they will be doing a favor to the country, its people & their own children.”