Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel has taken aim at stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra, accusing him of dodging police summons related to a case filed over a controversial comment made against Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
Patel, who lodged the original complaint, alleged that Kamra is deliberately staying out of Maharashtra to avoid legal scrutiny.
Kamra Accused Of Avoiding Summons
While speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Patel claimed that despite being served multiple summons, Kamra has yet to present himself before the Mumbai police.
“He is still not coming to Mumbai. He is running outside the state,” Patel said. “I understand that he has been granted anticipatory bail by the court. They have sent us a copy. Many such notices come and go. We will certainly seek an answer from Kunal Kamra when he comes to Mumbai.”
Patel also insisted that Kamra would eventually need to cooperate with the investigation. “He has to come to the police today or tomorrow,” he said.
FIR Filed Over Controversial Comedy Show
The controversy centers around Kamra’s stand-up special, “Naya Bharat,” which was released on YouTube last month. During the performance, Kamra referred to Deputy CM Eknath Shinde with the term “traitor,” which sparked backlash from the Shiv Sena.
Following Patel’s complaint, an FIR was registered at the Khar police station under Sections 353 and 356 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which pertain to assault or criminal force against a public servant and actions intended to dishonor a person.
Kamra has challenged the FIR in the Bombay High Court. On Tuesday, the court issued notices to both the Mumbai police and MLA Murji Patel. The petition is scheduled for hearing on April 16.
In the meantime, the Madras High Court has extended Kamra’s interim transit anticipatory bail until April 17, allowing him temporary relief from arrest.
Death Threats & Request
Kamra has also claimed that he’s received death threats following the release of his show. Citing security concerns, he has requested that police conduct his questioning via video conferencing instead of requiring him to travel to Mumbai.
Despite the ongoing court proceedings and Kamra’s security concerns, Shiv Sena maintains its stance that the comedian must answer for his remarks in person.
The case continues to attract public attention as the legal and political drama unfolds.
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