I Will Not Bow to This Mob: Kunal Kamra

Synopsis

Kunal Kamra stands firm against criticism from the MahaYuti alliance, refusing to apologize for calling Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde a traitor. He emphasizes freedom of speech and critiques the response of those offended by his comedy.

Key Takeaways

Kunal Kamra refuses to apologize for his comments on Eknath Shinde.
He defends freedom of speech against political backlash.
Kamra compares the attacks on venues to absurd actions.
He expresses willingness to cooperate with authorities.
Cites press freedom concerns in India.

Mumbai, March 25 (NationPress) Facing criticism from the ruling MahaYuti coalition for labeling Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde a traitor, comedian Kunal Kamra boldly asserted on Monday that he would not retract his statement, emphasizing, “I don’t fear this mob and I will not be hiding under my bed, waiting for this to die down.”

In a post on X, Kamra elaborated: “I will not apologise. What I said aligns with what Mr. Ajit Pawar (first DCM) remarked about Mr. Eknath Shinde (second DCM). To the political elders threatening to teach me a lesson, our right to freedom of speech and expression is not solely meant to praise the powerful and affluent, despite what today’s media may suggest. Your inability to appreciate humor aimed at a prominent public figure does not alter my rights. It’s not illegal to mock our leaders or the farce that is our political framework.”

He added, “I am ready to cooperate with law enforcement and the courts regarding any legitimate actions against me. But will the law be applied fairly against those who consider vandalism an appropriate response to a joke? And against the unelected BMC members who arrived at Habitat unannounced and demolished the place with hammers? Perhaps for my next performance, I’ll choose Elphinstone Bridge or another structure in Mumbai needing urgent demolition.”

“To the mob that decided Habitat should not remain standing, an entertainment venue is merely a platform—a space for various performances. Habitat (or any venue) holds no responsibility for my comedy, nor does it control my words or actions. Neither does any political party. Assaulting a venue due to a comedian’s remarks is as absurd as overturning a truck loaded with tomatoes just because you disliked the butter chicken served to you,” he stated.

He concluded, “To those leaking my number or incessantly calling me, I’m sure you’ve realized by now that all unknown calls go to my voicemail, where you’ll be subjected to the very song you despise. To the media diligently covering this spectacle, remember that press freedom in India is ranked 159.”