Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday took strong exception to comedian Kunal Kamra’s comments targeting Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, saying ‘freedom of speech’ does not allow ‘unchecked statements’.
He urged Kamra to apologize, stressing that such remarks go beyond the scope of stand-up comedy.
CM Fadnavis told reporters, “There is freedom to do stand-up comedy, but he cannot speak whatever he wants. The people of Maharashtra have decided who the traitor is. Kunal Kamra should apologise. We will not tolerate this.”
Maharashtra Chief Minister accused Kamra of deliberately trying to defame Shinde under the guise of humor.
“There is the right to comedy, but if it is being done to defame our Deputy CM Eknath Shinde purposely, it is not right,” he added.
The controversy stems from a recent stand-up act where Kamra allegedly mocked Shinde.
Reacting to this, CM Fadnavis also took a dig at Kamra’s post showing a red Constitution book, comparing it to a similar act by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.
“Kunal Kamra has posted the same red Constitution book shown by Rahul Gandhi. Both of them have not read the Constitution. The Constitution allows us freedom of speech, but it has limitations,” he noted.
Referring to the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly election outcome, CM Fadnavis remarked, “People have voted and supported us. Those who were traitors were sent home by the people. They showed those who insulted the mandate and ideology of Balasaheb Thackeray their place.”
He further warned that humor must not cross into disrespect.
“One may create humor, but making derogatory statements cannot be accepted. One cannot encroach on others’ freedom and ideology. This cannot be justified as freedom of speech,” Maharashtra Chief Minister remarked.
Deputy CM Ajit Pawar also weighed in, urging everyone to stay within legal and constitutional limits.
“I have seen that. Nobody should go beyond the law, Constitution, and rules. They should express themselves within their rights,” he said.
Pawar admitted that differing views are natural but emphasized the need for restraint to prevent needless confrontation.
He acknowledged that differences of opinion can exist but emphasized that their conversations shouldn’t require police involvement.
Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC also criticized Kamra, calling his act vulgar.
“You call Maharashtra’s most popular CM and deputy CM ‘gaddaar’ and label it a comedy. This isn’t comedy – it’s vulgarity,” Shaina NC emphasized.
The Shiv Sena leader went on to question Kamra’s motives, alleging that the UBT faction of the party was using him as a tool.
“Who is this Kunal Kamra, hired and used as a puppet by UBT as a diversionary tactic? Can you stoop so low for cheap publicity?” she questioned.
Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel has filed an FIR against Kamra and demanded an apology within two days, warning that the comedian would otherwise face consequences in Mumbai.
The backlash comes after Shiv Sena workers vandalized the Habitat Comedy Club in Khar on Sunday in response to Kamra’s remarks.
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