Comedian Kunal Kamra moves Madras High Court, seeks protection from arrest
PTC Web Desk: Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has moved the Madras High Court, seeking transit anticipatory bail after an FIR was lodged against him for performing a parody song allegedly mocking Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
The zero FIR, initially registered following a complaint by Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel, was later transferred to Khar Police in Mumbai. The case has been filed under Sections 353(1)(b), 353(2) (public mischief), and 356(2) (defamation) of the Bharat Nyay Sanhita.
Kunal Kamra approached the Madras High Court as he is a resident of Villupuram, Tamil Nadu. His petition follows a summons from the Mumbai Police directing him to appear on March 31. Kamra had earlier requested a seven-day extension.
Following his performance at Habitat Comedy Club in Khar, Shiv Sena workers protested and allegedly vandalised the venue. The police arrested 12 party workers, including leader Rahool Kanal, but they were granted bail within hours.
Kamra's counsel stated in court that the comedian has been receiving death threats, and the matter is set to be heard after the recess. According to his Instagram bio, Kamra is currently in Puducherry.
- With inputs from agencies
