Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has broken his silence on the controversy sparked by comedian Kunal Kamra’s recent satirical jibe, calling it akin to taking a “supari” (contract) to speak against someone.” Speaking at a BBC Marathi event, Shinde acknowledged the importance of freedom of speech but stressed the need for limits and decorum. “We understand satire, but there should be a decorum. Otherwise, action causes a reaction,” he warned.
Kamra, known for his sharp political satire, triggered a political storm in Maharashtra after performing a parody of the song ‘Bholi Si Surat’ from Dil To Pagal Hai, reportedly mocking Shinde as a “gaddar” (traitor). His remarks, referencing Shinde’s 2022 rebellion against Uddhav Thackeray that led to the split in Shiv Sena, quickly went viral, drawing intense backlash from Shiv Sena leaders and supporters.
The backlash turned into action when Shiv Sena’s youth wing, the Shiv Sainiks, vandalized the Habitat Comedy Club in Mumbai’s Khar area, where Kamra had performed the act. They also damaged a hotel where the venue was located, sparking a fresh wave of controversy over whether political satire should be met with violence.
Reacting to the vandalism, Shinde distanced himself from the attack but continued his criticism of Kamra. “This is not freedom of speech; this is working for someone,” he claimed, alleging that Kamra was targeting political figures with ulterior motives. Shinde also accused Kamra of making provocative remarks about the Supreme Court, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, journalist Arnab Goswami, and industrialists, suggesting that his comedy had an agenda beyond satire.
Despite mounting pressure, Kamra has refused to apologize. He defended his right to political satire, stating, “Freedom of speech means being able to poke fun at public figures, and my right to do so is not against the law.” He also condemned the attack on the comedy venue, arguing that violence against a venue should not be a response to a joke.
The controversy has divided political leaders and reignited debates on the limits of free speech. Samajwadi Party MP Jaya Bachchan and Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs have spoken out in support of Kamra’s right to expression, condemning the actions of the Shiv Sainiks who vandalized the club.
