By The Sampadak Express
Comedian Kunal Kamra on Monday informed Mumbai police that he would not apologize for his “traitor” remark directed at Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, unless instructed by the courts. Speaking to the police from Tamil Nadu, Kamra stood by his controversial comments, stating he had no regrets about calling Shinde a “gaddar” (traitor).
Kamra also addressed rumors suggesting he was funded by the opposition to target Shinde, denying the allegations. He gave the police permission to examine his financial records to prove the claims were baseless. This came after Maharashtra’s Minister of State for Home, Yogesh Kadam, stated that the government would investigate Kamra’s call records and bank transactions to determine whether anyone had directed him to make the remarks.
Fadnavis Demands Apology from Kamra
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis condemned Kamra’s comments and demanded an apology. Speaking to reporters at the state legislature complex, Fadnavis said, “People have the freedom to express satire and comedy, but deliberate insults are unacceptable. Kamra cannot justify his actions by waving the red book of the Constitution, especially when neither he nor Rahul Gandhi have read it.”
Shiv Sena Issues Warning, FIR Filed
Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam also criticized Kamra, alleging that funding for his shows came from “Matoshree,” the residence of Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray. Nirupam called Kamra’s act politically motivated and insisted that the comedian apologize, warning that Shiv Sena workers would not back down unless he did.
An FIR has been lodged against Kamra at the MIDC police station, following the complaint. Kamra’s refusal to apologize has sparked intense political debate, with both Shiv Sena and state officials demanding accountability for his remarks.