The controversy surrounding stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra’s remarks about Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde continues to escalate, with NCP-SCP MLA Rohit Pawar weighing in on the matter.
Reacting to the issue on Monday, Pawar stated that Freedom of Expression no longer truly exists, while emphasizing that a satirical remark cannot undermine Eknath Shinde’s stature.
“Satirical remarks have been a strength for many prominent leaders, including Balasaheb Thackeray. Eknath Shinde is his follower. If someone makes a joke about him, it won’t affect his stature,” Pawar told ANI.
Pawar further highlighted that political figures have faced satire in the past without resorting to aggression. “In 2003, Chhagan Bhujbal’s workers vandalized an office over a similar issue. Bhujbal took responsibility and resigned. When Rahul Gandhi was asked about a comment on Rajiv Gandhi in a series, he said that Rajiv’s significance wouldn’t diminish because of it. Leaders should also impart wisdom to their workers,” he added.
While supporting free speech, Pawar cautioned artists, stating, “This is not the pre-2014 era. Freedom of Expression no longer truly exists, so all artists should be careful.”
Reacting to the incident, Maharashtra Deputy CM and NCP chief Ajit Pawar stressed that differences of opinion should remain within legal and constitutional limits. “One should speak within their rights. Differences may exist, but care should be taken so that the police are not forced to take action,” he said.
Meanwhile, Maharashtra MoS for Home Yogesh Ramdas Kadam echoed similar sentiments, stating, “The Constitution provides freedom of speech, but it does not grant the right to insult those holding constitutional positions.”
Amid rising tensions, the Mumbai Police has registered FIRs against both Kunal Kamra and members of the Shiv Sena’s youth wing, who allegedly stormed and vandalized the Habitat Comedy Club in Khar during a live stand-up performance by comedian Rajat Sood.
According to Sub-Inspector Vijay of Khar police station, Shinde Sena’s youth faction entered the venue, disrupted the show, and vandalized the set, leading to the FIR under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and the Maharashtra Police Act.
The incident highlights the growing tension between artistic expression and political sensitivities, raising concerns over the boundaries of free speech in contemporary India.
