The Bombay High Court on Thursday granted interim protection from arrest to comedian Kunal Kamra in connection with an FIR lodged against him, even as it permitted the investigating agency to continue its probe in the matter.
A division bench admitted Kamra’s petition and clarified in its order that the petitioner “shall not be arrested in the FIR” during the pendency of proceedings. However, the court allowed the investigation to proceed unhindered.
The bench further directed that if the investigating agency wished to record Kamra’s statement, it could do so in Chennai with the assistance of local police authorities, considering the petitioner’s residence.
Importantly, the Court also observed that “during the pendency of the petition, if a chargesheet is filed, the trial court shall not proceed against the petitioner.” This ensures Kamra’s protection from coercive steps while the petition remains under consideration.
The matter pertains to an FIR reportedly filed in connection with his alleged ‘gaddar’ (traitor) remark directed at Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
