Kunal Kamra summoned by Mumbai Police over joke referring to Eknath Shinde as ‘Traitor’

Comedian directed to appear for questioning; Multiple cases registered

Khar Police have summoned comedian Kunal Kamra to appear before the investigating officer at 11 am today, according to a report. The action follows an FIR filed over remarks Kamra made during a recent stand-up performance, which stirred controversy after being uploaded to social media.

Initially registered at the MIDC police station in Andheri East, the FIR has now been transferred to Khar police for further investigation. Kamra’s show allegedly included phrases like “gaddar” (traitor) and “baap chori” (stealing the father), commonly used by Shiv Sena (UBT) against Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

FIR filed, studio vandalized, 12 arrested

Following the viral video clip, Shiv Sena filed a complaint, prompting police to register the FIR. In response, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) demolished a shed at the Mumbai hotel where the show was recorded. On Sunday night, 12 Shiv Sena workers were arrested for vandalizing the studio venue. All were later released on bail after being produced in Bandra court, with each posting a Rs.15,000 surety.

Studio shuts down temporarily

The studio that hosted Kamra’s show announced it would shut operations temporarily. In a public statement, it said:

“We will remain closed until we can provide a platform for free expression without risking our safety and property.”

The venue expressed disappointment over being targeted and emphasized that artists are solely responsible for their content. It called for constructive dialogue instead of violence and denied involvement in the show’s creative content.

Police confirm two separate FIRs

DCP (Zone IX) Dikshit Gedam confirmed that two separate cases were registered at Khar police station—one against Kamra for his remarks and another against those involved in the hotel vandalism. Kamra has not been arrested, as the FIR includes non-cognizable charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, such as public mischief and defamation, which do not warrant immediate arrest.

Kamra is currently in Pondicherry. Police stated that he would be called in for questioning, and his statement would be recorded.

Additional complaints filed

In Thane, Wagle Estate police registered a non-cognizable offence against Kamra for a satirical song allegedly targeting Deputy CM Shinde. Yuva Sena member Rupesh Mishra filed the complaint. Shiv Sena functionary Rahool Kanal was among the 12 arrested in the Khar vandalism case.

Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel, who initially filed the complaint, warned Kamra to apologize within two days or face consequences, stating that he “would not be allowed to move freely in Mumbai.”

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