Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has questioned the Maharashtra legislature’s privilege proceedings against him, citing a cartoon by Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray that criticised former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi to argue that satire has historically not invited such action.
Kamra, who has been served a breach of privilege notice over a satirical song targeting Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, shared excerpts of his written submission to the legislature’s privileges committee on social media.
In his deposition, Kamra referred to Thackeray’s work as a political cartoonist, noting that he had openly criticised leaders, including sitting prime ministers, without facing privilege proceedings. He argued that defending Thackeray’s legacy should also mean protecting the freedom of satire and expression.
The comedian’s remarks came in response to statements by Shiv Sena leader and state minister Pratap Sarnaik, who said the privilege motion had been duly referred to a committee and warned Kamra about the “aggressive approach” of Shiv Sainiks.
Kamra, however, maintained that political satire forms an essential part of democratic discourse. “In a 21st-century democracy, the use of legislative privilege to act against citizens for their speech should concern everyone,” he said, adding that such provisions could potentially be misused to curb freedom of expression.
He reiterated his refusal to issue an unconditional apology, calling it “insincere” and cautioning that it would set a negative precedent for artistic freedom.
The privileges committee, headed by BJP MLC Prasad Lad, will take a decision based on Kamra’s response. The complaint against him was filed by BJP leader Pravin Darekar, who alleged that Kamra’s remarks in a stand-up performance insulted Eknath Shinde and constituted a breach of privilege.
The controversy stems from a show in Mumbai last year, where Kamra performed a parody song referencing the political split in the Shiv Sena following Shinde’s rebellion against Uddhav Thackeray in 2022. After the performance clip surfaced online, Shiv Sena supporters allegedly vandalised the venue earlier this year.
An FIR was also registered against Kamra at Khar police station based on a complaint alleging defamatory remarks against the deputy chief minister.
