Mumbai, March 25, 2025: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has compared comedian Kunal Kamra’s jibe at him to taking a “supari” (contract) to speak against someone and warned that satire must have limits. Speaking at a BBC Marathi event on Monday, Shinde acknowledged freedom of speech but insisted on maintaining decorum, stating that “action causes reaction.”
Shinde’s comments follow Kamra’s parody performance, where the stand-up comedian referenced him as a “gaddar” (traitor) while mocking Maharashtra’s recent political turmoil, including the Shiv Sena and NCP splits. The show, held at Habitat Comedy Club in Mumbai’s Khar area, triggered violent backlash from Shiv Sena workers, who vandalized the venue and an adjacent hotel on Sunday night.
While condemning the studio attack, Shinde indirectly justified the reaction, saying, “The other person should also maintain a certain level. Otherwise, action causes reaction.” He also accused Kamra of targeting the Supreme Court, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, journalist Arnab Goswami, and industrialists, suggesting that his satire is not genuine but agenda-driven.
Kamra has refused to apologize and strongly criticized the vandalism, defending his right to freedom of expression. However, Mumbai Police have issued a notice summoning him for questioning. The police have also registered cases against 40 Shiv Sena workers involved in the attack and arrested Shiv Sena functionary Rahul Kanal and 11 others, who were granted bail the same day.
Despite the controversy, Shinde maintained his focus on governance, highlighting key welfare initiatives like the Ladki Bahin scheme, Lakhpati Didi scheme, and free education for girls. He emphasized that his work, not words, would be his reply to critics.
The incident has sparked a broader debate on freedom of speech vs. political retaliation in Maharashtra’s charged political climate.
