Kunal Kamra Row: Sanjay Raut Defends Comedian Amid Shiv Sena Backlash

Mumbai: Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra is facing backlash from the ruling Shiv Sena for allegedly making defamatory remarks against Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Shiv Sena leaders demanded an apology and even vandalized Habitat Comedy Club in Khar, where Kamra’s show was filmed.

In response, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut defended Kamra, citing freedom of speech. He reposted a video of Ajit Pawar’s ‘50 khoke, ekdam ok’ remark, which had criticized lawmakers who defected to Shinde’s camp in 2022. Raut stated that Kamra was merely reflecting public sentiment through satire.

Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske warned Kamra that he would not be allowed to roam freely in Maharashtra. Meanwhile, Mumbai Police arrested Rahul Kanal and 11 others for vandalizing the venue. An FIR was also filed against Kamra under BNS sections 353(1)(b) and 356(2) for statements conducing to public mischief and defamation.