‘Sabko Maarte Peetate Ghumta Main…’: Deputy CM Eknath Shinde Slams Shiv Sena Workers’ Attack Over Kunal Kamra’s ‘Gaddar’ Remark

Mumbai: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has broken his silence on the controversy sparked by comedian Kunal Kamra, who referred to him as a “gaddar” (traitor) during a stand-up show. The remark triggered outrage among Shinde’s Shiv Sena faction, with party workers resorting to vandalism at Mumbai’s Habitat Studio last week.

Addressing the row, Shinde distanced himself from the violence, making it clear that he does not endorse such actions. “So many people talk about me, I can’t go around hitting everyone,” he said, urging his party’s cadre to move on from the episode.

Social Media Divided

The incident has reignited debates online over the balance between free speech and accountability in satire. While Kamra’s supporters argued that freedom of expression must be upheld, critics insisted that personal attacks on political leaders cross the line. Some users condemned the vandalism, with one writing, “Action causing reaction is not a justification,” while others countered that “speech can’t be a shield for defamation.”

Court Proceedings in Kamra’s Case

Meanwhile, the Bombay High Court has admitted Kamra’s petition seeking to quash the FIR lodged against him for the “gaddar” comments. A division bench of Justices Sarang V. Kotwal and S. M. Modak directed the Mumbai Police not to arrest him but permitted the investigation to proceed.

The court asked police to record Kamra’s statement in Chennai, with support from local authorities, while taking note of the comedian’s claims of receiving death threats. It observed that the matter raised serious concerns from both sides and sought to ensure Kamra’s security during proceedings.

The judges concluded that, in light of the notice issued under Section 35(3) of the BNSS, the investigation could continue without coercive action against Kamra.