Jaya Bachchan Defends Kunal Kamra Amid Mumbai Studio Vandalism By Shinde Sena: 'Where’s Freedom Of Speech?'

The row over stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra's comments has intensified, with various political figures, including actress-turned-politician Jaya Bachchan, coming forward to champion his right to free speech.

She has also denounced the vandalism at the Mumbai venue where his performance was recorded.

Photo Credit: Sansad TV via PTI Photo

Addressing the press on the Parliament grounds, Jaya Bachchan raised concerns about the increasing curbs on freedom of expression in India.

"If there's a clampdown on speaking out, what's to become of you? You're already in a dire spot. You're hemmed in with restrictions. You'd be told to stick to certain topics and avoid asking particular questions. Where's the freedom of speech?" she questioned.

She went on to lambast the wider state of affairs, saying, "There's freedom of action only when there's chaos-rough up the opposition, commit crimes against women, murder people. What else? You (Eknath Shinde) abandoned your original party and set up a new one just for power. Isn't that a slap in the face to Balasaheb?"

The uproar began when members of the Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde) youth wing stormed the Habitat Comedy Club during a live show, forced it to stop, and trashed the set.

Khar Police Sub-Inspector Vijay explained that the attack was sparked by the release of Kunal Kamra's 'Naya Bharat' special. In the aftermath, FIRs have been filed against both the comedian for his statements and the youth wing members for the vandalism.