Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has approached the Bombay High Court seeking the quashing of an FIR registered against him over a joke that allegedly targeted Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. The plea was filed on April 5, and the matter is likely to be heard on April 21 by a bench led by Justice Sarang Kotwal.
Kamra Argues for Free Speech Rights
Filed through advocate Meenaz Kakalia, Kamra’s petition argues that the FIR violates his fundamental rights under the Constitution of India, including:
- Freedom of speech and expression
- Right to practice any profession
- Right to life and personal liberty
What Sparked the Controversy?
The controversy began when Kamra posted a stand-up comedy clip on Instagram in March, where he parodied a famous Hindi song from Dil Toh Pagal Hai (1997). In the satirical piece, he seemingly referred to Eknath Shinde as a “gaddar” (traitor) — a jab referencing Shinde’s political split from Uddhav Thackeray.
Backlash & Vandalism by Shinde Supporters
The joke triggered outrage among Shiv Sena supporters and members of the ruling Mahayuti coalition. In a violent turn of events, a group of Shiv Sainiks allegedly vandalized Mumbai’s Habitat Studio, where Kamra had performed the show.
Police arrested 12 individuals linked to the incident. All have since been granted bail.
FIR Filed After Complaint by Shiv Sena MLA
Following the backlash, Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel lodged a complaint against Kamra. Mumbai Police registered the FIR under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita sections:
- 353(1)(b) – Statements conducing to public mischief
- 356(2) – Defamation
Kamra Granted Transit Bail, Yet to Appear Before Cops
Last month, the Madras High Court granted interim transit anticipatory bail to Kamra, who is a permanent resident of Tamil Nadu. However, the comedian has not appeared before Mumbai Police, despite three summons being issued for questioning.
CM Devendra Fadnavis Weighs In
Amid growing debate over artistic freedom and political satire, Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis made a strong statement:
“We appreciate humour and satire. We accept political satire, but we do not accept freedom of expression if it leads to tyranny,” he was quoted saying by PTI.
Key Takeaways:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Who Filed the FIR? | Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel |
| Why the FIR Was Filed | Joke allegedly insulting Eknath Shinde |
| Legal Charges | BNS 353(1)(b) and 356(2) |
| Current Status | Kamra seeks quashing of FIR in Bombay HC |
| Next Hearing Date | April 21, 2025 |
| Comedian’s Legal Move | Transit anticipatory bail from Madras HC |
| Incident Outcome | 12 arrested over studio vandalism (out on bail) |
🔍 Why This Matters
The case reignites a long-standing debate in India over the limits of satire, artistic freedom, and the political boundaries of free speech. Kamra, known for his bold political humour, finds himself at the centre of a legal storm that could have wide-reaching implications for comedians, creators, and free speech advocates across the country.
