Kunal Kamra's first reaction in the 'joke' controversy on Shinde, said- 'I will neither be afraid nor hide':

Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra's first reaction has come out on the controversy over his jibe at Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. He wrote on the social media platform 'X' on Monday night that freedom of expression should not be limited to praising powerful people. Kamra said that his right to make jokes on public figures is never going to change. He also refused to apologize for his comment. He also said that he is ready to cooperate with the police in any legal action.

After Kamra's comments, Shiv Sena workers vandalized the studio in Mumbai where he recorded his comedy show. The Habitat Comedy Club, which was affected by the attack, has announced its temporary closure. An FIR has already been filed against Kunal Kamra over this controversy.

"Entertainment venue is just a stage"

On the mob responsible for attacking Habitat, Kunal Kamra said, "The entertainment venue is just a stage. It is a place for every kind of show. Habitat (or any other venue) is not responsible for my comedy, nor can it control what I say or do, nor can any political party. Attacking a comedian's words is as stupid as overturning a lorry carrying tomatoes because you didn't like the butter chicken served."

What did you say about the threats from leaders?

On threats from political leaders, he said, "Our right to freedom of speech and expression should not be limited to praising the rich and powerful, though that is what today's media is trying to teach. Your inability to tolerate jokes at the expense of a powerful public figure does not change the nature of my right. As far as I know, it is not against the law to poke fun at this spectacle of politicians and our political system."

Will action be taken against those who vandalize?

Kunal Kamra also reiterated that he is ready to cooperate with the police and the courts, but raised the question whether the law will be applied equally against those who have carried out the demolition. He also pointed out that non-elected BMC officials demolished parts of Habitat without any prior notice.