Madras High Court Grants Interim Protection from Arrest to Comedian Kunal Kamra

The Madras High Court on Friday granted interim anticipatory bail to stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra, who is facing legal trouble over remarks made during his recent show in Mumbai. The controversy erupted following his performance at the Habitat Comedy Club in Khar, where he sang a parody song allegedly targeting Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

The act triggered strong reactions from Shiv Sena supporters, leading to vandalism at the comedy club and the hotel where it is located. In response, Khar Police registered a case against Kamra based on a complaint filed by Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel, accusing him of making defamatory remarks against Shinde.

Kamra, who moved from Mumbai to Tamil Nadu in 2021, informed the high court that he has been residing in the state since then and feared arrest by the Mumbai Police. PTI reported that the comedian has already been summoned twice by Mumbai authorities regarding the case.

On Thursday, Mumbai Police issued a second summons, directing Kamra to appear before them on March 31. Meanwhile, law enforcement officials arrested 12 Shiv Sena members, including party leader Rahool Kanal, for vandalizing the comedy venue and the hotel premises.

Reacting to the developments, Kamra took to social media platform X, criticizing the mainstream media. "The mainstream media at this point is nothing but a miscommunication arm of the ruling party. They are vultures who report on issues that don't matter to the people of this country. If they all shut shop from tomorrow till eternity, they will be doing a favor to the country, its people & their own children," he posted.

With the court's ruling, Kamra has received temporary relief from arrest, but the legal battle over his remarks continues.