Ministers threaten Kunal Kamra over remarks on Eknath Shinde, alleges Sanjay Raut

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut. File
| Photo Credit: PTI

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Monday (Mrach 31, 2025) accused Maharashtra Cabinet Ministers of issuing violent threats against stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra over his controversial remarks about Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

Mr. Raut claimed that “Ministers in the State Cabinet are openly threatening Kunal Kamra, demanding that he be ‘shot and hanged immediately.’ Despite such lawlessness, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis remains a mute spectator.”

The Mumbai Police have issued two summons to Mr. Kamra so far. The second notice, sent on March 24, required him to appear at Khar Police Station on March 31 in connection with his recent “traitor” jibe at Mr. Shinde. However, he failed to do so.

Mr. Kamra also faces three fresh FIRs – one filed by Jalgaon’s mayor and two by a Nashik-based hotelier and businessman– over his alleged remarks against the Deputy CM.

Also read | Kunal Kamra row: Mumbai Police refuses to comment on reports that comedian’s plea for time to join investigation denied

Drawing comparisons to BJP MP Kangana Ranaut, who was provided security during her feud with the Shiv Sena, Mr. Raut demanded similar protection for Mr. Kamra. “Just as Kangana received special security, the Maharashtra government must ensure Kamra’s safety,” he said.

Amid escalating legal troubles, Mr. Kamra secured interim anticipatory bail from the Madras High Court on March 27. Justice Sunder Mohan granted transit bail until April 7, citing concerns over threats to Mr. Kamra’s safety.

Political Fallout

Mr. Raut lashed out at the State government, accusing it of failing to rein in inflammatory statements from its Ministers. “If public representatives openly call for extrajudicial action, it reflects the breakdown of constitutional governance,” he said.

Mr. Kamra’s case has ignited a political storm in Maharashtra, with legal proceedings mounting and political rhetoric intensifying over his satirical remarks.

After reports of the Mumbai Police visiting his Mumbai residence on Monday on a day when he was summoned by them, he posted his photo on X and said, “Going to an address where I haven’t lived for the last 10 years is a waste of your time and public resources…”