Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis has said that legal action will be taken against comedian Kunal Kamra for insulting Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. He also said that the comedian must issue an apology for taking a musical jibe at Shinde, adding that such statements cannot be justified as “freedom of speech”.

While speaking to the reporters, CM Fadnavis stated that the action against Kamra would be in response to his alleged insult to “the mandate and ideology of Balasaheb Thackeray”.

“A legal action will be taken according to the law, Kunal Kamra should apologise,” CM Fadnavis told reporters.

“There is freedom to do stand-up comedy, but he cannot speak whatever he wants. The people of Maharashtra have decided who the traitor is. Kunal Kamra should apologise. This will not be tolerated. There is the right to comedy, but if it is being done to defame our Dy CM Eknath Shinde purposely, it is not right,” he added. 

He continued, “Kunal Kamra has posted the same red constitution book shown by Rahul Gandhi. Both of them have not read the Constitution. The Constitution allows us freedom of speech, but it has limitations.” Kamra not only held up the Constitution during his show but also posted a picture of himself with it after his jokes sparked a political storm. He defended his act by stating that it was “the only way forward”.

“People have voted and supported us in the assembly elections in 2024. Those who were traitors were sent home by the people. The people showed those who insulted the mandate and ideology of Balasaheb Thackeray their place. One may create humour, but making derogatory statements cannot be accepted. One cannot encroach on others’ freedom and ideology. This cannot be justified as the freedom of speech,” he further said.

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar said, “…I have observed that no one should go beyond the law, constitution, and rules. One should speak within their rights. Differences of opinion may exist, but care must be taken to ensure that the police department does not have to intervene due to their statements.”

Following a police complaint by Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel, an FIR has been lodged against Kamra for his remarks at Habitat Studio in Mumbai. Additionally, the police have registered a case against nearly 40 Shiv Sena workers for allegedly vandalising the venue.