Mumbai Police issue notice to Kunal Kamra: 'Derogatory remarks against Dy CM Shinde'

Kamra also satirised recent political developments in Maharashtra, including the splits within the Shiv Sena and NCP in his show.

Mumbai Police, on Tuesday, issued a notice to stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra, summoning him in connection with a case registered against him for allegedly making derogatory remarks about Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Kamra has been asked to appear before the Khar police as part of the ongoing investigation at 11 am, according to officials.

As per police sources, an initial notice has been served to Kamra, though further details of the probe remain undisclosed. The controversy erupted after Kamra, during his stand-up show at the Habitat Comedy Club in Mumbai’s Khar area, performed a parody of a popular Bollywood song from Dil To Pagal Hai, mocking Shinde and referring to him as a "gaddar" (traitor). He also satirised recent political developments in Maharashtra, including the splits within the Shiv Sena and NCP.

Shinde, reacting to the controversy a day later, stated, "While freedom of speech is a fundamental right, there must be certain boundaries." He further likened Kamra’s comments to taking a 'supari' (contract) to target someone, adding, "We understand satire, but there should be a limit."

The video of Kamra’s performance quickly went viral, triggering a backlash from the Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction. On Sunday night, Shiv Sena workers vandalised the Habitat Comedy Club, where Kamra’s show was held, and also targeted Hotel Unicontinental, where the venue is located. Following the attack, the police registered an FIR against Kamra based on a complaint by Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel, citing alleged defamatory remarks against the deputy chief minister.

On Monday, Mumbai Police also registered a case against 40 Shiv Sena workers for their involvement in the vandalism. Twelve individuals, including Shiv Sena functionary Rahul Kanal, were arrested in connection with the attack on the comedy venue the same day. However, a local court granted them bail on the same day.

(With inputs from agencies)