Eknath Shinde Joke Row: 500 Threat Calls to Kunal Kamra, Comedian Delays Police Visit By A Week

Comedian Kunal Kamra has allegedly been receiving death threats from Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) workers following his controversial 'gaddar' (traitor) joke, which was perceived as a dig at Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

Summoned by the Mumbai Police in connection with the controversy, Kamra has sought a week's time to appear before authorities.

According to NDTV, sources reveal that Kamra has received over 500 threat calls, with some callers allegedly threatening to kill him and cut him into pieces. The outrage erupted after a video of his joke went viral, triggering backlash from Shiv Sena supporters.

Venue Vandalism and Police Action

The controversy intensified after Kamra's performance at Mumbai's Habitat comedy club in Khar, where he, without naming anyone, seemingly mocked Shinde by modifying a song from the Bollywood film Dil Toh Pagal Hai. Enraged by the remarks, Shiv Sena workers vandalized the venue.

Following the incident, police arrested 12 Shiv Sena workers and leaders in connection with the vandalism. However, they were later released on bail. Another case was registered against 40 Sena workers for damaging the venue.

Meanwhile, Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel filed an FIR against Kamra at Khar police station, prompting authorities to issue a notice summoning him for questioning. A police official, quoted by PTI, confirmed the probe but did not specify the date of Kamra's summons. Sources suggest the comedian has requested a one-week extension.

Additionally, an FIR was lodged against Kamra in Thane for allegedly defaming the Shiv Sena chief. He has been booked under Section 356(2) (defamation) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita following a complaint by a Shiv Sena functionary at the Dombivli police station.

Kunal Kamra Stands Firm

Despite the mounting pressure, Kamra has refused to apologize. He defended his joke, stating, "What I said is exactly what Mr. Ajit Pawar (first Deputy CM) said about Mr. Eknath Shinde (second Deputy CM)."

Unfazed by the threats, Kamra asserted, "I will not live in fear or hide under my bed until this controversy dies down." He also addressed the incessant calls he has been receiving, remarking, "To those leaking my number and calling repeatedly, you will be greeted by the very song you despise on my voicemail."

Shiv Sena leaders had earlier demanded an apology from Kamra, with Maharashtra Minister Gulab Raghunath Patil issuing a veiled warning: "If he doesn't apologize, we will deal with him in our own way." He further remarked, "Shiv Sena won't leave him... If he doesn't apologize, he will have to come out someday. Where will he hide?"

Eknath Shinde Reacts

On Wednesday, Eknath Shinde finally broke his silence, stating, "We understand satire, but there should be limits." Taking a swipe at Kamra, Shinde compared the comedian's remarks to a supari (contract) taken to speak against someone.

Shinde also accused Kamra of repeatedly targeting political figures, the Supreme Court, journalist Arnab Goswami, and industrialists, arguing, "This is not freedom of speech; this is working for someone."

Addressing the vandalism incident, Shinde justified his party workers' reaction, stating, "When one crosses limits, action leads to reaction."