Kunal Kamra row: Bombay HC protects comedian from arrest over ‘traitor’ jibe against Eknath Shinde
The Bombay High Court restricted the Mumbai police from arresting or taking any coercive action against stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra though it can continue probe against him for his alleged remarks against Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
The Bombay High Court, hearing Kamra’s petition seeking to quash the FIR registered against him for his alleged derogatory remarks against Shinde, has admitted the petition for detailed arguments during the next hearing. A bench comprising Justices Sarang Kotwal and S.M. Modak restricted the Mumbai police from arresting Kamra. The bench also restricted the trial court from proceeding against the comedian if the police filed a charge-sheet before the High Court passed a verdict on Kamra's petition.
In his petition, the comedian argued that even if taken at face value, the allegations against him do not constitute an offence. Kamra informed the court that he is facing death threats since a case was filed against him over his alleged remarks and had agreed to appear for interrogation before Mumbai police via videoconferencing.
The court observed if police wishes to record Kamra’s statement then they should do so from Chennai, where the comedian currently resides, after giving prior notice.
During his recent performance in Mumbai, Kamra performed a parody version of a Hindi song from the film "Dil Toh Pagal Hai," and allegedly referred to Shinde as a "gaddar" (traitor). However, Kamra did not name the Shiv Sena leader in the show. Kamra also performed jokes about recent political developments in Maharashtra. Four cases have been registered against Kamra over his remarks and Khar police are investigating it.
Angered by Kamra’s performance, Shiv Sena workers vandalised ‘The Habitat’ studio premises where the performance was held. Mumbai police arrested 12 persons including Shiv Sena functionary Rahool Kanal for vandalising the premises and they were released on bail later.
India