Kunal Kamra Granted Interim Bail by Madras High Court
Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has been granted interim bail by the Madras High Court until April 7th. This follows a controversy stemming from comments he made about Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde. The court's order stipulates that Kamra must furnish a bond before a Judicial Magistrate in Villupuram district, Tamil Nadu.
Kunal Kamra's Tamil Nadu Residence
Kamra informed the court that he relocated from Mumbai to Tamil Nadu in 2021 and established residency there. He cited fears of arrest by Mumbai police as the reason for his move. The controversy arose after he performed a satirical song about Eknath Shinde during a show at the Habitat Comedy Club in Khar, Mumbai, which subsequently went viral on social media.
Shiv Sena Supporters' Protest and Hotel Vandalism
Following the release of the video, Shiv Sena supporters reacted bly, vandalizing the hotel and club in Khar. Based on a complaint filed by Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel, the Khar police registered a case against Kamra, alleging offensive remarks against Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
Kamra's Defense of Freedom of Expression
Kamra's lawyer argued in court that the song did not name anyone directly and should be considered freedom of expression under the ambit of satire and parody. The defense also cited Supreme Court precedents recognizing satire and parody as components of freedom of speech. They further pointed out that those involved in the hotel vandalism were all out on bail.
