BMC has continued the demolition of unauthorised construction at Habitat Studio on Tuesday according to media reports. This action followed an incident where comedian Kunal Kamra’s performance, featuring commentary on Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, sparked controversy.
The BMC’s actions were based on alleged building code violations. Officials had initiated the demolition of unapproved sections of the Khar venue, Unicontinental, The Habitat, on Monday.
Kamra-Shinde Controversy
The controversy erupted when Kamra parodied a popular song from “Dil Toh Pagal Hai,” labeling Eknath Shinde a “gaddar” (traitor), triggering protests and vandalism by Shinde-led Shiv Sena workers.
He added, “Shiv Sena first came out of the BJP, then Shiv Sena came out of Shiv Sena. NCP came out of NCP, they gave nine buttons to one voter… Everyone got confused.”
The jokes in the show have drawn criticism from the Shiv Sena (Shinde Faction).
What led to the demolition of Habitat Studio?
State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik had requested the BMC commissioner, Bhushan Gagrani, to take action against the studio, citing its illegal status. According to a report by Hindustan Times Gagrani said that he instructed the local assistant commissioner, Vinayak Vispute, to investigate potential irregularities.
Vispute stated that the temporary shed was removed immediately, as such structures do not require formal notices. He also emphasised the basement’s misuse, confirming that the building plans were being reviewed for further action.
Inspection revealed that the studio had erected an unpermitted rooftop shed, which was subsequently removed. Additionally, the basement, designated for storage, was being utilised as a performance space.
“We are looking at this closely. We got the building plan, and will proceed with the next course of action on Tuesday. We will be able to say conclusively what lies ahead then,” he told Hindustan Times.
Following the Sunday incident, a police presence, including state reserve forces, was deployed to secure the building.