Mumbai:
Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has moved the Bombay High Court, requesting the cancellation of an FIR filed against him in connection with a parody performance allegedly mocking Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde. In his plea, Kamra argues that the FIR is a direct violation of his constitutional rights, particularly the freedom of speech guaranteed under Article 19 and the right to personal liberty under Article 21.Kunal Kamra Moves Bombay High Court to Quash FIR
The High Court is scheduled to hear the matter tomorrow.
Previously, the Madras High Court granted Kamra interim protection from arrest, which is set to expire today. The comedian has already missed three police summons in relation to the case, citing concerns over the legal process and selective targeting.
The controversy stems from Kamra’s satirical rendition of “Bholi Si Surat”, performed at Habitat Studio in Mumbai, where he labeled Eknath Shinde a “gaddar” (traitor)—a term popularized by Uddhav Thackeray following the 2022 Shiv Sena split. The parody quickly gained traction online, igniting political outrage.
Following the viral clip, alleged supporters of Shinde ransacked the Habitat venue, prompting its temporary closure. Civic authorities also demolished parts of the building the next day, claiming violations of construction norms. However, the timing of the action raised questions about whether the demolition was retaliatory.
In his public statements, Kamra defended his right to satire and lampoon political figures, stating, “Mocking leaders isn’t criminal. It’s satire, not sedition.” He emphasized his willingness to cooperate with authorities but also questioned the silence around those who vandalized the comedy venue.
“I won’t apologize or hide. If free speech is only allowed until someone gets offended, then it isn’t free at all,” Kamra remarked, calling for equal accountability for all parties involved.
While Eknath Shinde distanced himself from the vandalism, he remarked that “every action has a reaction” and provocatively asked who had given Kamra the “supari” (contract) to insult him.
