Madras HC Grants Interim Anticipatory Bail To Comedian Kunal Kamra

The Madras High Court on Friday granted stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra interim transit anticipatory bail in connection with a case filed against him in Mumbai.

The court also issued a notice to the Mumbai Police and scheduled the next hearing for April 7.

Background of the Case

Kunal Kamra had approached the Madras High Court seeking transit anticipatory bail after an FIR was lodged against him in Mumbai. The charges stemmed from his alleged remarks made against Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde. Kamra’s comments, made during his stand-up performance, sparked significant controversy.

Kamra’s counsel, V. Suresh, informed the court of the serious threats that Kamra had been receiving, including multiple death threats, following the release of his stand-up video Naya Bharat on social media. The video, which garnered significant attention, led to a group of Shiv Sena workers vandalizing the Habitat Studio in Mumbai, where Kamra had performed.

In connection with the incident, the police arrested 12 individuals, who were later granted bail. Kamra’s counsel further emphasized the danger Kamra faced, arguing that the comedian’s safety was at risk due to the nature of the threats and the violent response to his remarks.

Kamra Seeks Protection From Arrest

Given the escalating threats and the situation in Mumbai, Kamra sought protection from immediate detention. To avoid arrest in the city, he filed for transit anticipatory bail, which allows him to seek temporary protection while he pursues a legal remedy. The court is scheduled to hear Kamra’s plea again later in the day after the recess.

Court’s Decision

The Madras High Court’s interim decision to grant Kamra transit anticipatory bail provides him temporary relief from arrest. The court’s notice to the Mumbai Police indicates that it will review the circumstances of the case more thoroughly during the upcoming hearing.

Kamra’s legal team is now awaiting the next steps in the process, with the next hearing set for April 7.

Kamra’s case has drawn attention due to the mix of political commentary, legal action, and threats of violence that have emerged in response to his performance. The outcome of the upcoming hearings may set a precedent for similar cases involving freedom of speech and security concerns for public figures.

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