The Bombay High Court on Tuesday called attention to a legal challenge presented by comedian Kunal Kamra, concerning an FIR accusing him of labeling Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde as a “traitor.” This case, arising from comments made during a stand-up comedy performance, prompted a notice from the court directed towards Mumbai police and Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel.
Justices Sarang Kotwal and S M Modak, presiding over the case, have scheduled a hearing for April 16. The complaint that led to Kamra’s FIR was initiated by Patel, following which the Khar police in Mumbai registered the case against the comedian.
During proceedings, Kamra’s legal representative, Navroz Seervai, stated that the Madras High Court recently extended Kamra’s interim transit anticipatory bail until April 17. He also highlighted Kamra’s repeated offers to participate in police questioning via video conference, citing significant threats to his safety due to the physical appearance requirement set by the police.
“The insistence of the police to have him here in person seems less about recording his statement and more about physical presence,” argued Seervai.
Residing in Tamil Nadu since 2021, Kamra maintains his readiness to cooperate with the legal process, albeit through virtual means. “This is not a murder case but stems from a comedic performance. Mr. Kamra is prepared to fully cooperate with the investigation, provided it can be conducted via video conference,” added Seervai.
The court has decided to weigh all presented issues during the upcoming April 16 hearing.
