Indian stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra is under police investigation following a performance that allegedly criticized a key political figure, Eknath Shinde, an ally of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The controversy has reignited concerns over free speech in India, as Kamra refuses to apologize despite backlash from hardline political supporters.
The uproar began after Kamra performed a parody song about a “traitor,” which did not explicitly name anyone but was perceived by members of Shinde’s Shiv Sena party as a direct reference to the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra. Enraged party workers vandalized the performance venue, Mumbai’s Habitat Studio, forcing it to shut down temporarily.
“I don’t fear this mob and I will not be hiding under my bed, waiting for this to die down,” Kamra stated on Monday. A vocal critic of the Modi government, Kamra has over six million followers on social media and is known for his sharp political satire.
Police Probe and Death Threats
Following a complaint by Shiv Sena workers, Mumbai police summoned Kamra for questioning. However, citing death threats from party members, he requested a week’s time before appearing. Mumbai police have not responded to media inquiries regarding the case, and Reuters was unable to reach Shinde for comment.
Shinde, who played a pivotal role in aligning Maharashtra’s government with Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has distanced himself from the violence but condemned Kamra’s act. “I do not support violence by my party workers,” Shinde stated, adding that Kamra’s jokes were “not in good taste.”
Free Speech Debate Intensifies
The incident has fueled discussions on free speech in India, with BJP lawmakers warning against misuse of artistic freedom. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath defended Shinde, stating, “Your freedom of speech cannot be used to personally attack someone else.”
Despite the criticism, Kamra has received widespread support online. His performance video has amassed over six million views and 58,000 comments on YouTube within two days. Many supporters have also donated money to Kamra, backing his defiant stance.
This is not the first time Kamra has faced legal trouble. In 2020, he was banned from flying for six months after confronting a journalist with ties to the BJP on a plane. His work, like that of many stand-up comedians in India, often draws the ire of political hardliners.
The controversy also comes amid increasing restrictions on satire and commentary. Last month, India’s Supreme Court ordered the country’s top podcaster to halt his shows after he was charged with obscenity over a stand-up performance.
As stand-up comedy gains popularity in India’s urban circles, performers continue to test the boundaries of political critique. Kamra’s case highlights the growing tension between free expression and political sensitivities in the country’s evolving entertainment landscape.
