​On April 8, 2025, the Bombay High Court issued notices to the Mumbai Police and Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel in response to a petition filed by stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra. Kamra sought the quashing of an FIR lodged against him for allegedly referring to Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde as a “traitor” during his stand-up show “Naya Bharat.” The court scheduled the next hearing for April 16, 2025, and noted that Kamra had been granted interim anticipatory bail by the Madras High Court until April 17, 2025.

The FIR was registered following a complaint by Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel, accusing Kamra of defamation and statements conducing to public mischief under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Kamra’s legal team argued that the FIR infringes upon his fundamental rights, including freedom of speech and expression, and that his remarks were part of a satirical performance commenting on political events.

Kamra has not appeared before the police despite receiving three summonses, citing safety concerns and offering to cooperate via video conferencing. His counsel emphasized that the case pertains to a comedic performance and should not necessitate his physical presence.

The court will review all aspects of the case on April 16, 2025.

Sources