In a shocking incident reflecting the tense political climate in India, comedian Kunal Kamra has found himself in a precarious position after a joke about politician Eknath Shinde triggered mob violence. The comedy club in Mumbai, where Kamra performed, became the target of rampaging supporters of the politician shortly after footage of his act was shared online.
Attendees at a separate event were intimidated as the mob vandalized the venue, with law enforcement on site witnessing the turmoil. In response, the chief minister of Maharashtra condemned Kamra's comments and called for legal action against him. Authorities subsequently launched a defamation case, while local government officials even resorted to using hammers to inflict damage on the club—an act reminiscent of the controversial "bulldozer justice."
Despite the chaos, Kamra published a statement asserting his resolve, stating that targeting a comedy venue for a joke is as absurd as damaging property over a disliked meal. As societal pressures on free expression mount, the comedy club, known as Habitat, announced its closure, marking a significant loss for India's political satire scene. Meanwhile, police and agitated supporters are actively searching for Kamra, who remains on the run, believed to be hiding in a southern state of India.
Attendees at a separate event were intimidated as the mob vandalized the venue, with law enforcement on site witnessing the turmoil. In response, the chief minister of Maharashtra condemned Kamra's comments and called for legal action against him. Authorities subsequently launched a defamation case, while local government officials even resorted to using hammers to inflict damage on the club—an act reminiscent of the controversial "bulldozer justice."
Despite the chaos, Kamra published a statement asserting his resolve, stating that targeting a comedy venue for a joke is as absurd as damaging property over a disliked meal. As societal pressures on free expression mount, the comedy club, known as Habitat, announced its closure, marking a significant loss for India's political satire scene. Meanwhile, police and agitated supporters are actively searching for Kamra, who remains on the run, believed to be hiding in a southern state of India.
