Mumbai: In a surprising turn of events, former Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray has come out in strong support of stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra, whose recent performance sparked a political controversy in Mumbai. Thackeray’s endorsement of Kamra’s contentious remarks, which seemingly targeted Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, has added fuel to the already heated debate surrounding freedom of expression and political sensitivity.
“Kunal Kamra has spoken the truth,” Thackeray declared to reporters on Monday afternoon, dismissing claims that the comedian’s words were mere satire. The ex-Chief Minister went on to assert that those who engage in theft are indeed ‘gaddar’ (traitors), a term that has become the centerpiece of this unfolding drama.
Thackeray took pains to distance “real” Shiv Sena workers from the vandalism that occurred at the Mumbai studio where Kamra’s show was recorded. “Don’t blame shiv sainiks for what happened at Khar… sainiks can never do that,” he stated, suggesting that the perpetrators were likely individuals who felt their leader had been disrespected.
The political veteran also called for equal treatment in matters of justice and compensation. Drawing a parallel to recent events in Nagpur, where violence erupted over demands to relocate Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s grave, Thackeray urged Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to ensure that the studio owners affected by the vandalism receive compensation.
Aaditya Thackeray, son of Uddhav Thackeray, echoed his father’s sentiments and directly challenged Eknath Shinde. “Why should Kamra apologise?” he questioned, suggesting that if the labels of ‘traitor’ and ‘thief’ apply to Shinde, it is the Deputy Chief Minister who owes an apology and explanation.
The controversy has its roots in the political upheaval that saw Shinde, along with rebel Sena lawmakers, aligning with the BJP, leading to the fall of the Uddhav Thackeray-led government in 2022. This split has since resulted in ongoing political, electoral, and legal battles, with Thackeray’s faction accusing Shinde of betraying the legacy of Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray.
As the debate rages on, Kamra himself has reportedly stated to police sources that he would only apologize if directed by the courts, maintaining that he does not regret his controversial comments.
