Mumbai comedian Kunal Kamra has once again been called in by the Mumbai Police on charges of allegedly making derogatory comments against Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. The controversy relates to one of his recent acts in which he spoofed a hit song and made scathing remarks about Maharashtra’s political woes, including splits in Shiv Sena and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP).
The complaint was lodged by Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel, who alleged that Kamra’s jokes were derogatory and defamatory against Shinde. Kamra was summoned to give his statement on the issue. This is not the first time the comedian has landed in trouble for his political satire, as he has had similar cases against him in the past for his remarks on the judiciary and the Prime Minister.
The incident has caused a political controversy, with opposition parties criticizing the BJP for double standards. Whereas Kamra’s jokes on Shinde led to immediate action, the BJP did not say anything about his previous remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Opposition leaders say that the selective outrage of the BJP betrays its political bias.
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh criticized the BJP’s response, saying, “The ruling party is quick to act when their allies are targeted but conveniently ignores criticism directed at the Prime Minister.” Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) MP Sanjay Raut echoed similar views, stating that “comedians are being targeted to divert attention from real issues.”
Kamra, who is famous for his candid political remarks, replied to the summons in his typical humor. He tweeted, “Getting a police summons for making jokes is now a monthly subscription service. Perhaps I should start charging for it.” His tweet has gone viral on social media, with many netizens showing solidarity with the comedian and raising questions about the state of free speech in the nation.
Legal authorities too have been speaking on the issue, drawing attention to the slender line dividing satire and defamation. “Comedy and satire have always been instruments to keep those in power under check,” senior advocate Anand Grover said. “Criminalizing jokes is a very dangerous precedent for free speech.”
This latest twist serves to fuel the debate about freedom of expression in India. Kamra’s case highlights the escalating conflict between political authority and public dissent. As the legal process plays out, the larger issue is: Ought comedians and artists to be taken to court for making light of political personalities, or should satire be safeguarded as a means of free expression?
So far, Kamra is set to face the Mumbai Police for questioning next week. Whether this case will be taken to court or settled outside is unclear, but both political and social consequences of the event are already apparent.
