Wed Mar 26 18:07:23 UTC 2025: ## Maharashtra Deputy CM Accuses Opposition of Hypocrisy After Comedian’s Satirical Song Sparks Row

**Mumbai, India** – Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has accused the Uddhav Thackeray faction of the Shiv Sena of hypocrisy, alleging that their criticism of actions taken against comedian Kunal Kamra for a satirical song is inconsistent with their past actions. Shinde claims Kamra’s song, which included the word “traitor” (“gaddar”) targeting him, was part of a contract (“supari”) given to the comedian by the opposition.

The controversy erupted after Kamra’s satirical performance at Mumbai’s Habitat Comedy Club, which led to the club’s vandalism by Shiv Sena workers and a police case against the comedian. Kamra, while stating he would cooperate with the police, refused to apologize. He displayed the Indian Constitution during his show, emphasizing his right to free speech.

Shinde, repeatedly labeled a “traitor” by the Uddhav Thackeray faction following the 2022 Shiv Sena split and his alliance with the BJP, retorted in the Maharashtra Legislative Council, “You keep calling me ‘gaddar, gaddar,’ you will soon have to close the ‘daar’ (door) of your party.” He cited the Election Commission’s recognition of his faction as the legitimate Shiv Sena and the BJP-Shiv Sena-NCP (Ajit Pawar faction)’s electoral victory as proof of public support.

Shinde countered accusations of violating the Constitution by targeting Kamra, highlighting instances where the Uddhav Thackeray-led government allegedly suppressed dissent. He specifically mentioned the demolition of actor Kangana Ranaut’s Mumbai office in 2020, the assault of comedian Pranit More, and the arrest of actor Ketaki Chitale. “Where was your constitution… when you bulldozed Kangana’s office?” Shinde questioned, accusing the opposition of selective application of constitutional principles. His comments were seen as a dig at both Kamra and Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi, who have also publicly displayed the Constitution. The political spat continues to fuel tensions in Maharashtra’s already volatile political landscape.

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