Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra, known for his topical humor that often ignites controversy, has landed in hot water once more after making a jab at Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. His remarks have triggered a wave of backlash from Shiv Sena politicians and other influential figures in the political sphere. Meanwhile, Minister Pratap Sarnaik confirmed that Kamra, who is facing an FIR registered at Khar police station, is currently in Pondicherry.

For those unfamiliar, during a recent performance, Kunal Kamra delivered a parody song set to the tune of “Dil To Pagal Hai.” In the song, he referred to Shinde’s 2022 defection from the undivided Shiv Sena, labeling him a “gaddar” (traitor).

**Sequence of Events After the Show**
Following the performance, an FIR was lodged against Kamra at Khar Police Station. Supporters of Eknath Shinde vandalized the venue, Habitat Club, located in Khar’s Unicontinental Hotel. On Monday, the police arrested Shiv Sena functionary Rahul Kanal along with 11 others for the ransacking incident. Subsequently, it was revealed that the venue was an illegal structure, prompting the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to initiate its demolition.

After the vandalism, Kamra posted a photo of himself holding a copy of the Indian Constitution, captioned, “The only way forward.”

**Devendra Fadnavis Criticizes Kunal Kamra**
Chief Minister and Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis made a statement regarding Kamra’s actions, asserting, “This is a serious issue. We all support freedom of speech, including satire. However, we will not condone any moves toward anarchy. Kamra has previously targeted prominent figures like the Prime Minister and the judiciary. He seeks controversy for publicity, and this time he aimed low by targeting former CM Eknath Shinde. The people of Maharashtra will decide who is a ‘gaddar’ and who stands for the ideals of Balasaheb Thackeray. Is he above the people of Maharashtra? How can some in the opposition defend him when he disparages a respected leader like Shinde? Has he been contracted for this? Although he shared a photo with the Constitution associated with Rahul Gandhi, it doesn’t grant one the right to insult others. We will take necessary actions going forward to prevent such actions that disrupt Maharashtra’s environment.”

**Ajit Pawar Comments on the Incident**
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar also criticized Kamra during a media briefing, stating, “No one should overstep the law and the Constitution. While differing opinions are acceptable, statements should be made with caution to avoid police involvement.”

**Pratap Sarnaik Justifies the Vandalism**
Shiv Sena Minister Pratap Sarnaik defended the vandalism, attributing it to Kamra’s insulting remarks. “Our Shiv Sainiks will not tolerate any disrespect towards our leader. I am not justifying the vandalism in my ministerial role, but as a Shiv Sainik, I understand the reaction to the insults.”

**Shaina NC Rebukes Kamra**
Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC condemned Kamra’s jibe as vulgar, exclaiming, “I didn’t realize comedians could be rented like puppets! What he said isn’t comedy; it’s vulgarity. He clearly doesn’t comprehend the efforts it took for an auto-rickshaw driver to gain public support and rise as CM and Deputy CM of Maharashtra.” She called for legal action against Kamra.

**Jaya Bachchan Criticizes Eknath Shinde**
SP MP Jaya Bachchan questioned Eknath Shinde’s actions, saying, “If there are limits on speech, what will become of you? Restrictions seem to only occur during turmoil – attacks, atrocities. You left your original party for power, which is an insult to Balasaheb Thackeray.”

**Aaditya Thackeray Condemns the Attackers**
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray lambasted the attackers, tweeting, “Mindhe’s cowardly gang destroys the stage of comedian @kunalkamra88, who presented a song about Eknath Mindhe that was entirely true. Only an insecure coward would react this way. By the way, what’s happening to law and order in the state?”

**Arvind Sawant Stands with Kamra**
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant expressed his support for Kamra, stating, “I believe everything he said was accurate. If we declare that democracy exists here, we must accept criticisms like his. FIRs should be filed against the vandals. Can’t they handle criticism?”