Kunal Kamra vs. Eknath Shinde: Controversy escalates as BMC begins demolition at Mumbai Studio

Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has found himself at the center of a political storm following his remarks about Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Amid the controversy, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) demolished parts of the Habitat Studio in Mumbai, where Kamra had recorded his show, citing alleged building violations.

Kamra, who is currently in Pondicherry, has been booked at Mumbai’s Khar police station. The controversy erupted after Kamra’s stand-up performance featured a parody song referencing Shinde’s 2022 defection from the undivided Shiv Sena. His use of the term “gaddar” (traitor) sparked outrage among Shinde’s supporters, leading to protests and vandalism.

On Sunday, Shiv Sena workers ransacked both the Habitat Studio and a hotel where the show was recorded. Following the incident, 12 individuals were arrested and later granted bail. In response, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that while stand-up comedy is welcome, it must not cross the line into defamation. He emphasized that Kamra should apologize for his remarks.

The controversy has sparked a political debate, with opposition leader Uddhav Thackeray coming to Kamra’s defense. Thackeray argued that the comedian merely expressed public sentiment and questioned why similar outrage wasn’t directed at individuals who had insulted historical figures like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. He also demanded compensation for damages to the venue.

Meanwhile, Jaya Bachchan criticized the restrictions on free speech, questioning why comedians are targeted while acts of violence go unchecked. Deputy CM Ajit Pawar urged responsible speech, while Minister Pratap Sarnaik confirmed that police teams were coordinating with their counterparts in Pondicherry to track down Kamra.

As political tensions rise, the incident has once again raised concerns over freedom of expression and the limits of satire in India.