Kunal Kamra Refuses to Apologize Over Controversial Remarks on Eknath Shinde

Mumbai police have registered an FIR against comedian Kunal Kamra after his reported defamatory remarks against Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde during a stand-up performance at the Habitat Comedy Club in Khar on Sunday. Kamra was said to have used abusive language, referring to Shinde as a “gaddar” (traitor). The FIR was registered on a complaint from Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel, who alleged that Kamra had made statements that could lead to public disturbance and defamation.

In spite of the increasing controversy, Kamra, 36, has categorically denied offering an apology over his remarks. In a statement posted on social media site X, he declared, “I will not apologise. What I said is precisely what Mr. Ajit Pawar (1st Deputy CM) said regarding Mr. Eknath Shinde (2nd Deputy CM). I don’t fear this mob & I will not be cowering under my bed, awaiting this to blow over.” His position has ignited a political firestorm in Maharashtra, with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis demanding an apology while opposition leaders have come out in support of Kamra.

The situation took a turn when Shiv Sena employees congregated outside the venue following the performance and vandalized both the comedy club and the hotel where it was being held. The incident has stoked political controversy, with Kamra’s comments and their fallouts still making the headlines all over the state.