Comedian skips third police summon over ‘traitor’ remark on Maharashtra leader
Popular ticketing platform BookMyShow has removed stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra’s listings and promotional content from its portal following political backlash over remarks targeting Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde.
Kunal Kamra recently made indirect comments against a senior political leader from Maharashtra during his stand-up show. Through a satirical song, Kamra reportedly used the term “traitor,” which drew strong criticism from the Shiv Sena faction led by Eknath Shinde. The party demanded that BookMyShow delist Kamra from its platform, both in artist listings and event promotions.
Following this, Shiv Sena leader and social media in-charge Rahul Kanal claimed that BookMyShow complied with the request and removed all references to Kamra. He also publicly thanked the company’s CEO Ashish Hemrajani for the action. Kanal expressed appreciation in a letter, stating, “Thank you for removing Kunal Kamra from your sales, promotion list, and even the search history. Your support in maintaining public sentiment and peace is invaluable.”
Kamra, however, has yet to respond publicly to the development. The ticketing platform has not issued an official statement either.
Skipping Police Summons
Despite growing political heat, Kamra has not appeared before Mumbai Police despite receiving three separate summons. The notices are linked to multiple FIRs registered in Mumbai and Thane—Shinde’s political stronghold—alleging incitement and offensive remarks.
The controversy intensified after a Shiv Sena protest led to vandalism at a studio that had hosted one of Kamra’s shows. According to police, the complaints pertain to Kamra’s use of the phrase “गद्दार नज़र वो आए” (he looks like a traitor) in one of his performances—a line that many interpreted as a jibe at Shinde.
Political vs. Artistic Expression?
In his letter, Kanal reiterated that “Mumbaikars love and believe in all forms of art, but not in personal agendas.” He went on to say that BookMyShow’s team showed “remarkable leadership and vision” by promptly acting on the matter and upholding its values.
The episode has ignited fresh debate on the balance between freedom of expression and political sensitivity in India’s cultural spaces. Critics argue that censorship, even if voluntary or corporate, sets a worrying precedent for artistic liberties.
Kamra, known for his biting political satire, has often been in the spotlight for controversial routines. The incident further underscores the growing tensions between comedians and political establishments in India.
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