The Bombay High Court has granted stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra protection from arrest until April 17 in connection with an FIR filed against him by Shiv Sena MLA Muraji Patel. The court has issued notices to the Maharashtra government and the complainant, directing them to respond to Kamra’s petition seeking to quash the FIR. The next hearing is scheduled for April 16.

The FIR stems from a performance in February during which Kamra allegedly referred to Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde as a “traitor,” alluding to Shinde’s 2022 political realignment that led to a split in the Shiv Sena. Kamra has challenged the FIR, arguing that it violates his fundamental rights under Articles 19 and 21 of the Constitution, which guarantee freedom of expression and the right to life.

Prior to approaching the Bombay High Court, Kamra had sought and obtained interim anticipatory bail from the Madras High Court, citing threats to his safety. The Madras High Court granted him protection until April 7, which has now been extended by the Bombay High Court until April 17.

Sources