Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde of Maharashtra responded to the joke controversy that comedian Kunal Kamra made against him. Controversy erupted when Kamra delivered bold satirical statements targeting Shinde through his stand-up show performances. The comedian reinterpreted the song from Dil Toh Pagal Hai to insert derogatory humor about Shinde, using the word “gaddar” (traitor). The show video circulated rapidly on the internet causing Shiv Sena supporters to launch a backlash.
Shinde made his first public remarks about the issue by stating that freedom of speech exists but has set restrictions. “We understand satire, but there should be a limit,” Shinde remarked, distancing himself from the vandalism that followed Kamra’s performance. Shinde clarified that he did not endorse the violent actions of Shiv Sena workers, who stormed the Habitat Comedy Club in Mumbai and damaged equipment in protest. “Every action has a reaction,” he explained, underscoring the emotional reaction of his party members but stating he did not support such acts.
Kamra Refuses to Apologise
Kamra, however, stood by his comments and refused to apologise. He pointed out that his joke was similar to remarks made by other political figures, including Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, about Shinde. “I will not apologise. What I said is exactly what Mr. Ajit Pawar said about Mr. Eknath Shinde. I don’t fear this mob & I will not be hiding under my bed,” Kamra declared, emphasising his right to freedom of expression.
In the aftermath of the joke, Shiv Sena workers not only vandalised the comedy venue but the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) also demolished parts of the building, citing code violations. The incident has sparked a larger debate about the boundaries of free speech and the consequences of offending political figures. Kamra responded by condemning the attack, likening it to senseless actions. “Attacking a venue for a comedian’s words is as senseless as overturning a lorry carrying tomatoes because you didn’t like the butter chicken you were served,” he quipped.
Shinde Accuses Kamra of Agenda-Driven Comments
Shinde responded to these events by focusing on Kamra’s history of controversial comments. He accused the comedian of being motivated by external interests, stating, “This same person has previously spoken against the Chief Justice, the Prime Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, and leading industrialists of this nation. This is not freedom of expression. It is speaking on behalf of someone with an agenda.”
Despite the uproar, Shinde made it clear that his priority was his work and public service. “I focus on work and delivering justice to the people,” he stated, reiterating his disapproval of the violence while stressing his focus on governance.
