Mumbai Police have registered a case against Shiv Sena’s social media in-charge, Rahool Kanal, Bandra Vibhag Pramukh Kunal Sarmalkar, and 18 others in connection with the vandalism at UniContinental Hotel. The incident occurred after stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra referred to Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde as a “traitor” during his performance. Kanal and others have been summoned for questioning at the Khar police station.
Shiv Sena deputy leader Sanjay Nirupam has openly threatened Kamra, prompting authorities to enhance security at the UniContinental Hotel. On Sunday night, Shiv Sena workers allegedly vandalized the venue, damaging chairs and the entire stage setup. Protesters also burned Kamra’s photo outside the Wagle Estate police station in Thane, a Shiv Sena stronghold. Meanwhile, Shiv Sena supporters gathered outside multiple police stations, demanding strict action against the comedian.
During his show, Kamra modified lyrics from the Bollywood film Dil To Pagal Hai to mock Eknath Shinde, referencing his 2022 rebellion that led to the division of Shiv Sena into two factions. He later shared a video clip of his act on social media, which triggered backlash from Shinde’s supporters.
Shiv Sena legislator Murji Patel has filed a case against Kamra at MIDC police station under sections 353(1)(b), 353(2), and 356(2). Additionally, Rahool Kanal has filed a criminal complaint at Khar police station against Kamra, Aditya Thackeray, Rahul Gandhi, and Sanjay Raut under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023. Kanal alleges that Kamra’s actions were part of a pre-planned conspiracy and a paid campaign aimed at defaming Eknath Shinde. His complaint claims that Kamra’s statements were not only offensive but also unlawful under the provisions of the new legal framework. He added that while criticism of public figures is acceptable, making derogatory and defamatory remarks crosses legal boundaries and constitutes a criminal offense.
This report is a web-generated news update.
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