Thu Apr 17 09:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Comedian Kunal Kamra’s Lawyer Challenges FIR in Bombay High Court

**Mumbai, India** – Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra’s lawyer today challenged the FIR filed against him in the Bombay High Court, alleging the police acted with undue haste and violated his client’s freedom of speech. The FIR stems from a parody song allegedly targeting Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

Senior advocate Navroz Seervai argued that the case represents a blatant attempt at censorship, describing the police actions as “the rarest of rare” instances where the legal machinery is used to stifle free speech guaranteed under Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution. He urged the court to stay the investigation, citing Supreme Court precedents against such actions.

Seervai criticized the police for failing to conduct a preliminary enquiry to determine if an offense had even been committed. He highlighted the issuing of multiple summons despite documented threats against Kamra, including instances targeting his elderly parents, and mentioned a Madras High Court order granting Kamra interim relief in light of these threats.

“Seervai accused the enforcement machinery of being ignorant of fundamental rights, stating that even after 75 years of the Constitution, the police do not care about or are ignorant of these fundamental rights,” a source reported.

The public prosecutor, Hiten Venegaonkar, countered that artists and comedians should not target individuals and should be open to criticism.

The High Court reserved its order, assuring Kamra that he will not be arrested until a decision is reached.

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