Mon Mar 24 11:09:16 UTC 2025: ## Uddhav Thackeray Defends Comedian Kunal Kamra Amidst Shinde Faction Outrage

**Mumbai, March 24, 2025** – Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Monday staunchly defended stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra, who recently referred to Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde as a “gaddar” (traitor). Thackeray asserted that Kamra had spoken the truth and that there is no freedom of expression when it comes to traitors. The statement comes in the wake of vandalism by alleged Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) workers at the Mumbai studio that hosted Kamra’s show.

Thackeray distanced himself and “real” Shiv Sena workers from the incident, which resulted in the studio’s demolition on Monday. He suggested the vandalism was fueled by those fearing disrespect towards Shinde, contrasting it with the lack of similar reaction to insults against Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. He further called for justice and compensation for the studio owners, echoing demands made in response to violence in Nagpur over Aurangzeb’s grave.

Thackeray’s son, Aaditya Thackeray, also voiced support for Kamra, challenging Shinde to address the accusations of treachery and theft before demanding an apology from the comedian. Aaditya’s statement mirrors his father’s defense of Kamra and adds further fuel to the ongoing political feud.

The controversy stems from the 2022 political upheaval in Maharashtra, where Shinde, along with a faction of Shiv Sena MLAs, defected to the BJP, leading to the collapse of the Shiv Sena-Congress-NCP government and the formation of a new government under Shinde. Uddhav Thackeray and his supporters have continuously accused Shinde of betraying the legacy of Balasaheb Thackeray.

Meanwhile, according to police sources, Kamra stated he will only apologize if ordered by a court and expressed no regrets over his comment. Former Congress leader Milind Deora, who joined Shinde’s faction, countered Thackeray’s defense, interpreting Kamra’s comment as mockery of self-made leaders. He questioned Thackeray and his son’s authority to comment on law and order. The ongoing conflict reflects the deep divisions within the Shiv Sena and the broader political landscape of Maharashtra.

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