Shiv Sena vs. Kunal Kamra: Comedian Faces Backlash Over Eknath Shinde Jibe, Venue Vandalized

Mumbai: Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has once again landed in controversy after making a satirical remark about Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) leader Eknath Shinde. During a recent performance, Kamra referred to Shinde as a ‘gaddar’ (traitor) and parodied a song from Dil Toh Pagal Hai, drawing strong backlash from the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction). Party leaders have since issued threats against Kamra, filed police complaints, and taken aggressive action against the venue where his show was filmed.

Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske lashed out at Kamra, branding him a “contract comedian” allegedly hired by Uddhav Thackeray to target Eknath Shinde. Warning Kamra of dire consequences, Mhaske said, “You should not have stepped on a snake’s tail. Once the fangs are out, there will be no escape. If we start following you, you will have to leave the country.” He further accused the Uddhav Thackeray faction of using comedians to attack the current government, claiming that Kamra would now face the repercussions of his remarks.

Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel also threatened action against Kamra, stating, “I will show him his level. He must apologize for his comments.” Patel confirmed that an FIR had been filed against Kamra at MIDC police station. As the controversy escalated, Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) workers stormed Hotel Unicontinental in Mumbai’s Khar, where Kamra’s show was recorded. Videos circulating online show party workers vandalizing the property, smashing chairs, tables, and lighting equipment in protest against the comedian’s remarks. The attack has sparked widespread criticism, with many questioning the justification for such violent reactions.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut came out in support of Kamra, slamming the vandalism and the threats issued against him. Raut took to X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Kunal Kamra is a well-known writer and stand-up comedian. He composed a parody song about Maharashtra’s political situation, which irked the Shinde gang. Devendraji, you are a weak home minister.” His remarks have further fueled political tensions, with leaders from the Shinde faction accusing the opposition of orchestrating indirect attacks on their leadership through comedians and satirists.

This incident has reignited the debate over freedom of speech in India. While comedians argue that satire is an essential tool for critiquing political developments, such remarks often lead to legal action and physical threats. Kamra, who has faced multiple controversies in the past for his outspoken political stand-up routines, now finds himself once again in the midst of a storm. The police are investigating the case following the FIR, while security around Kamra has been heightened in light of the threats against him.