Kunal Kamra Challenges FIR Over 'Traitor' Remark Against Maharashtra Deputy CM

Legal Action by Kunal Kamra

Mumbai: Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has filed a petition with the Bombay High Court, aiming to dismiss an FIR that was registered against him by the Mumbai police. The FIR stems from allegations that he referred to Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde as a 'traitor'.

Kamra submitted his petition on April 5, asserting that the complaints lodged against him infringe upon his constitutional rights, including freedom of speech, the right to pursue any profession, and the right to life and liberty.

The petition, represented by attorney Meenaz Kakalia, is expected to be heard by a bench led by Justice Sarang Kotwal on April 21.

Previously, Kamra secured interim transit anticipatory bail from the Madras High Court regarding this matter, as he is a resident of Tamil Nadu.

Despite receiving three summons from the Mumbai police, the comedian has not appeared for questioning.

During a performance, Kamra made a jab at Shinde, using a modified lyric from a popular Hindi song from the movie 'Dil To Pagal Hai', indirectly labeling him a 'gaddar' (traitor).

He humorously commented on Shinde's rebellion against Uddhav Thackeray.

The FIR against Kamra was filed following a complaint from Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel, citing sections 353(1)(b) (public mischief) and 356(2) (defamation) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.