Kunal Kamra moves HC to cancel FIR
A few days after receiving interim protection from arrest until April 7 from the Madras High Court, Kunal Kamra has now approached the Bombay High Court by filing a petition. This latest legal step highlights his continued efforts to challenge the FIR registered against him. Kamra’s move to seek relief in another court underscores the seriousness of the case and his intent to safeguard his legal rights while addressing the controversy surrounding his alleged remarks.
Kunal Kamra Approaches Bombay HC to Quash FIR Over ‘Gaddar‘ Remark on Eknath Shinde
Mumbai: Stand-up comic Kunal Kamra has filed a plea in the Bombay High Court, seeking the cancellation of a First Information Report (FIR) lodged against him after he referred to Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde as a “gaddar” (traitor) during one of his comedy performances.
In his petition, Kamra argued that the FIR violates his fundamental rights, including the freedom of speech enshrined under Article 19 and the right to life and personal liberty under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. The High Court is expected to take up the matter on April 21.
Kamra’s latest legal action follows closely on the heels of interim protection from arrest granted to him by the Madras High Court, which extended the relief until April 7. Notably, the comedian has thus far ignored three summons issued by the Mumbai Police in connection with the case.
The controversy erupted about two weeks ago after Kamra performed a parody version of the popular Bollywood song Bholi Si Surat from the film Dil To Pagal Hai, using the opportunity to call Shinde a “gaddar.” The remark was a reference to the dramatic political events of June 2022, when Eknath Shinde led a rebellion within the Shiv Sena, resulting in a vertical split in the party and the fall of the Uddhav Thackeray-led Maharashtra government.
Since the split, both Uddhav Thackeray and his son Aaditya Thackeray have consistently labeled Shinde a “gaddar.” Kamra’s echoing of this term triggered a sharp backlash from Shinde’s camp and Shiv Sena supporters. Enraged activists stormed and vandalised the studio where Kamra’s show was filmed, sparking further political tension.
The incident also became a flashpoint in the Maharashtra legislature, with members of the Mahayuti alliance expressing strong disapproval of Kamra’s act. They demanded an apology from the comedian and accused him of mocking a sitting deputy chief minister. Some Shiv Sena supporters even issued threats, warning Kamra of consequences if he did not retract his remarks.
Reacting to the controversy, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis condemned Kamra’s comments and promised firm action. Fadnavis maintained that while the Constitution guarantees freedom of speech, it should be exercised responsibly and within legal bounds. Any misuse or overstepping of that right would be dealt with firmly, he asserted.
The state’s Legislative Council also took serious note of the matter. A breach of privilege motion was introduced against Kamra during the recently concluded budget session. BJP legislator Pravin Darekar supported the motion, accusing Kamra of making personal and derogatory statements about Deputy CM Shinde through his song performance.
In response to the studio attack by Shiv Sena workers, Shinde distanced himself from the act of vandalism but offered a cryptic take. “I don’t support such destructive behavior,” he said, “but we must also consider how low some people stoop when making accusations. Every action invites a reaction.” Shinde claimed he had the strength to ignore insults but questioned Kamra’s motives, suggesting that the comedian might have taken a “supari” (contract) to malign him.
Kamra, however, remained defiant. Refusing to offer any apology, he stated, “I am not afraid of these threats and I certainly won’t hide while this blows over.” Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he further clarified his stance and drew parallels with other political leaders.
He went on to criticize the prevailing political atmosphere where, according to him, freedom of speech is being curtailed by the powerful. “Freedom of expression doesn’t exist just to flatter those in positions of power. Today’s media might want us to believe otherwise, but our rights include the ability to hold the mighty accountable. Just because some leaders can’t take a joke doesn’t mean my right vanishes,” he added.
Kamra also objected to the conduct of the Mumbai Police, especially their move to serve notices to audience members who were present at his show. He termed this an overreach and expressed concern over authorities attempting to intimidate not just him but also his viewers.
As the case continues to unfold, Kamra’s stance has sparked a fresh debate on the limits of free speech in India, especially when it comes to satirizing political figures. While his supporters hail him for speaking truth to power, critics argue that comedians must exercise restraint and avoid personal attacks under the guise of satire.
The Bombay High Court’s hearing on April 21 is expected to set an important precedent on how freedom of expression intersects with public sensitivities in an increasingly polarized political environment.