Mumbai: A comedy performance by Kunal Kamra has sparked a major political controversy after alleged supporters of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde vandalized the India Habitat Studio in Mumbai. The incident occurred on Sunday, following Kamra’s satirical remarks targeting Shinde and other political leaders during his show, reported the India Today.
Kamra, known for his sharp political humor, performed a parody of the popular Hindi song Meri Nazron Mein Tum Ho, altering its lyrics to refer to Shinde as a gaddar (traitor). His routine also included satirical takes on the fragmentation of Shiv Sena and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), leaving many of Shinde’s followers enraged.
Shortly after Kamra released a video of his performance online, a group of men stormed the Habitat Studio, damaging property and forcing the show to end prematurely. Eyewitnesses reported that the mob broke furniture and vandalized the premises, creating chaos. One floor of the studio reportedly sustained significant damage.
Following the attack, an FIR was registered against Shiv Sena Yuva Sena General Secretary Rahool Kanal and 19 others under various sections of the Maharashtra Police Act and the BNS Act. Meanwhile, the India Habitat Studio issued a statement condemning the violence and announcing a temporary shutdown to reassess security measures.
The incident has drawn strong reactions from political leaders. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut condemned the vandalism, defending Kamra’s right to free speech. “Democracy thrives on diverse opinions, and such acts of hooliganism must not be tolerated,” he stated.
On the other hand, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis criticized Kamra’s remarks as “inappropriate” and demanded an apology, asserting that while satire is a part of democracy, defamation of political figures should not be tolerated.
Additionally, Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel has filed a separate FIR against Kamra, warning that the comedian would not be allowed to move freely in Mumbai unless he apologized.
The controversy highlights the growing tension between political satire and freedom of expression in India. The vandalism at India Habitat Studio raises concerns about the safety of artists who use their platform for political commentary.
