Mumbai Police Issues Third Summons to Comedian Kunal Kamra in Shinde Case
Mumbai Police have issued a third notice to stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra, demanding his presence on April 5. This summons pertains to an FIR filed against him for alleged derogatory remarks made about Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
Officials confirmed that Kamra had previously been summoned twice but did not appear for questioning.
The case originated from a parody song Kamra performed at a Mumbai show, which appeared to target Shinde, labeling him a traitor.
Although Shinde was not explicitly named in the song, Shiv Sena activists reacted strongly, vandalizing the studio where the performance was recorded.
A Shiv Sena MLA filed a complaint, leading Khar police to register an FIR against Kamra under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to defamation and public mischief.
On Monday, a Khar police team visited Kamra’s family home in Mahim to ascertain his availability for questioning.
Legal Proceedings and Statements
On March 28, the Madras High Court granted Kamra interim anticipatory bail. Justice Sunder Mohan also issued a notice to Khar police, scheduling a further hearing for April 7.
Kamra sought transit anticipatory bail, citing threats he received after his controversial remarks.
Kamra’s performance of “Naya Bharat” in Mumbai’s Habitat studio drew criticism for labeling Shinde a “traitor.” The incident led to the vandalism of the studio by Shiv Sena members and condemnation from various political figures.
Mumbai Police officials stated, “The Mumbai Police has issued a third notice to Kunal Kamra to appear on 5th April and record his statement. Police had called Kunal Kamra twice before for questioning, but he did not appear.”
They are also investigating allegations that Kamra made satirical remarks about other public figures.
The police indicated that if offensive satirical remarks about any politician, actor, or sportsperson are discovered, appropriate action will be taken. Kamra’s lawyer has reportedly contacted the officials, although Kamra himself has not yet reached out.
Multiple Cases and Legal Defense
Three separate cases have been filed against Kamra at Khar Police Station. One complaint was lodged by the Mayor of Jalgaon, and two others by a hotelier and a businessman from Nashik.
Kamra, a permanent resident of Tamil Nadu, received interim anticipatory bail from the Madras High Court until April 7, with specific conditions. He used a parody version of a song from the 1997 film “Dil Toh Pagal Hai” in his act targeting Shinde.
Following the backlash, the BMC began demolishing parts of the Habitat studio. Kamra told police officials that he would cooperate with the investigations but was not currently in Mumbai. He also stated he would not apologize for his remarks.
In a detailed statement, Kamra asserted that making fun of leaders is not against the law. “Your inability to take a joke at the expense of a powerful public figure does not change the nature of my right,” he stated.
Police Investigation Continues
The Mumbai Police continue their investigation into Kamra’s remarks. They have issued a third summons, demanding his appearance on April 5, after he failed to appear for the previous summonses.
The police are also examining allegations that Kamra made satirical remarks about other personalities. They have indicated that if any offensive remarks are found, they will take necessary action.
Kamra’s lawyer has contacted the officials, but Kamra himself has not yet reached out. The comedian has maintained his stance, asserting his right to make satirical remarks about public figures.
