Kunal Kamra Refuses to Apologize for Eknath Shinde Joke, Criticizes Vandalism
Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has broken his silence over the ongoing controversy regarding his joke on Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Kamra firmly stated that he will not apologize, despite the backlash from certain political groups. He also condemned the vandalism at Habitat Comedy Club in Mumbai, where his show was held.
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Kunal Kamra Slams Attacks on Comedy Venue
On Sunday night, members of Shiv Sena vandalized the Habitat Comedy Club in Mumbai, where Kamra’s show took place. Reacting to this, Kamra criticized the attack, calling it an act of senseless violence. He compared it to someone overturning a lorry carrying tomatoes just because they didn’t like their butter chicken. He further clarified that entertainment venues are not responsible for a comedian’s content. “Habitat, or any other venue, does not control my jokes, nor does any political party,” he said.
Kamra Defends His Right to Free Speech
Addressing the threats against him, Kamra asserted that his right to free speech remains intact. “Your inability to take a joke does not change my fundamental right,” he stated. Kamra also questioned whether legal action would be taken against those who resorted to vandalism. He added that he is willing to cooperate with the police if necessary but questioned whether the law would be fairly applied to both sides.
The Controversy: What Happened?
Kamra’s stand-up routine included a parody of a famous Bollywood song, allegedly referring to Eknath Shinde as a “gaddar” (traitor). His remarks touched on recent political developments in Maharashtra, including power struggles within Shiv Sena and NCP. As the controversy escalated, Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis demanded an apology from Kamra, calling his jokes inappropriate. Meanwhile, opposition leader Uddhav Thackeray defended Kamra, stating that there was nothing offensive about the joke.
Legal Action and Political Reactions
Following the vandalism at the Habitat Comedy Club, police arrested 12 individuals, including Shiv Sena leader Rahul Kanal. However, they were granted bail the same day. Several political leaders, including those from Congress and CPI (M), have voiced support for Kamra, emphasizing the importance of free speech in democracy.
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