Mon Mar 24 09:42:05 UTC 2025: ## Maharashtra CM Condemns Kunal Kamra’s Remarks, Vows Action

**Mumbai, March 24, 2025** – Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis strongly condemned stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra’s alleged defamatory remarks against Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, asserting that reckless misuse of free speech will not be tolerated. The issue sparked heated debate in the State Assembly Monday.

Fadnavis criticized Kamra’s performance at Mumbai’s Habitat Studio, where he reportedly referred to Shinde as a “traitor” and sang a parody targeting the Deputy CM’s 2022 rebellion against Uddhav Thackeray. The Chief Minister highlighted Kamra’s history of controversial comments targeting the Prime Minister, Chief Justice of India, and the judiciary, suggesting a pattern of using controversy for publicity.

Fadnavis argued that the 2024 Assembly election results demonstrated public support for Shinde, implicitly rejecting Kamra’s portrayal. He questioned whether Kamra’s actions were aligned with the Opposition, citing a photo of Kamra with a copy of the Constitution, similar to one carried by Rahul Gandhi.

The incident led to significant disruption in the Assembly, with Shiv Sena members demanding action against Kamra. Following the performance, Shiv Sainiks vandalized the Habitat Studio, resulting in arrests and the venue’s subsequent closure. While Fadnavis condemned Kamra’s actions, he also called for those involved in the vandalism to be held accountable. He emphasized that while satire and stand-up comedy are acceptable, crossing the line into reckless insults and defamation will not be tolerated. The Chief Minister assured that strict legal action would be taken.

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