Kunal Kamra Summoned by Mumbai Police Over Controversial Comments
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Synopsis
On March 25, Mumbai Police summoned Kunal Kamra for his controversial remarks about Deputy CM Eknath Shinde. Currently in Puducherry, Kamra plans to cooperate fully with the investigation while standing firm against calls for his apology.
Key Takeaways
- Mumbai Police issued a summons to Kunal Kamra.
- Summons pertain to remarks about Deputy CM Eknath Shinde.
- Kamra is currently in Puducherry but willing to cooperate.
- Shiv Sena demands an apology; Kamra refuses.
- Ongoing investigation into related vandalism incidents.
Mumbai, March 25 (NationPress) On Tuesday, the Mumbai Police issued a summons for stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra, requiring him to appear and provide his statement regarding a case linked to his contentious remarks about Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
According to police sources, a team from Khar police station delivered the summons to Kamra’s residence, where his parents reside. As Kamra is currently out of Mumbai, the police opted to send the summons via WhatsApp.
On Monday, Shiv Sena legislator Mangesh Kudalkar lodged a complaint at the Kurla Nehrunagar police station against Kamra, requesting the police to initiate legal action. Kamra is presently in Puducherry and has communicated to the police his willingness to cooperate fully in the investigation.
Previously, the MIDC police station had filed a Zero FIR against Kamra due to an allegedly offensive joke made during a stand-up comedy performance. Meanwhile, the Khar police have also charged Yuva Sena general secretary Rahool Kanal under various sections of the BNS and Maharashtra Police Act for vandalism.
Deputy Commissioner of Police, Zone 9, Dixit Gedam, stated that two cases have been registered at the Khar police station: one against Kamra for his derogatory comments and the other against individuals responsible for vandalizing the Unicontinental hotel, the location of Kamra's comedy show. The investigation is ongoing.
The Shiv Sena has called for an unconditional apology from Kamra, while opponents have criticized the state government for swiftly taking action against Kamra while being lenient towards those who have insulted Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Late Monday night, Kamra reaffirmed that he will not apologize for his remarks, stating, “I don’t fear this mob and will not hide under my bed, waiting for this to die down.”
In a post on X, Kamra expressed, “I will not apologize. My statement mirrors what Mr. Ajit Pawar (first DCM) said about Mr. Eknath Shinde (second DCM). To the political figures threatening me, our right to freedom of speech and expression shouldn’t just serve the interests of the powerful. Your inability to appreciate humor targeting public figures doesn’t invalidate my rights. It’s not unlawful to jest about our leaders and the absurdities of our political system.”
He continued, “I am ready to cooperate with the police and courts regarding any lawful measures taken against me. However, will the law be applied equally against those who resort to vandalism when offended by a joke? What about the unelected members of the BMC who arrived unannounced and demolished the venue with hammers? Perhaps I should consider Elphinstone bridge or any other structure in Mumbai that needs urgent destruction for my next performance.”
“To the mob that deemed Habitat unfit. An entertainment venue is merely a platform, a space for various shows. Habitat (or any venue) is not accountable for my comedy, nor does it control my speech. Neither does any political party. Attacking a venue due to a comedian’s words is as irrational as overturning a truck filled with tomatoes because you disliked the butter chicken you were served,” he concluded.
