Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra may face further legal trouble over a parody song targeting Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde. Proceedings for breach of privilege are expected to commence soon.
Comedian Kunal Kamra: Political satire through stand-up comedy seems to have landed comedian Kunal Kamra in hot water once again. His name, known for his sharp wit, political barbs, and open criticism, is once again at the center of Maharashtra's political landscape. This time, Kamra is embroiled in controversy over a parody song targeting Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde.
Proceedings for breach of privilege are about to begin against him in the state Legislative Council. Lawmakers from the ruling party and the Council Chairman have taken the matter seriously and initiated the notice process.
What is the full story?
During the March 2025 budget session of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, BJP MLA Pravin Darakar filed a notice in the Legislative Council, accusing Kunal Kamra and Shiv Sena (UBT) spokesperson Sushma Andhare of breach of privilege and demanding action. At the heart of this controversy is the parody song Kamra performed during his stand-up show.
While the song didn't directly name Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, its satirical nature was deemed offensive by Shinde's supporters. Protests erupted across the state, and the venue in Mumbai where the show was filmed was vandalized.
Action by the Privileges Committee
Maharashtra Legislative Council Chairman Ram Shinde has referred the matter to the Privileges Committee. The committee chairman, BJP MLC Prasad Lad, confirmed that the process of issuing notices to Kunal Kamra and Sushma Andhare has begun. Lad told the media that this is not just a matter of a comedian's joke; it concerns the dignity of the state's senior representatives and the prestige of their constitutional positions. After discussion, they are proceeding with further action.
This is not the first time Kunal Kamra has been embroiled in political controversies. He has been in the news several times before, often due to his controversial statements and social media posts. In 2020, a tweet criticizing the Supreme Court led to a contempt of court case.
He was also temporarily banned from flying after a confrontation with Arnab Goswami on an Air India flight. He also shared a morphed video of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, replacing a children's song with the lyrics "Mahangai Daayan Khaye Jaat Hai" (Inflation is devouring us).
What are political analysts saying?
Political experts believe this case transcends humor and freedom of expression. In the current political climate, such satire is seen as a direct attack, especially when targeting a ruling party leader. Breach of privilege proceedings in the Legislative Council are typically reserved for serious matters where a member's constitutional dignity or rights have been violated. It remains to be seen whether the committee will exonerate Kamra, issue a warning, or take stricter disciplinary action.
