Kunal Kamra summoned by Mumbai police over Eknath Shinde joke
What's the story
The Mumbai police have summoned comedian Kunal Kamra for making a joke against Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
The summons was served to Kamra's father at their Mumbai home and has also been sent to him on WhatsApp, as he is out of the city.
The action came after Kamra uploaded a 45-minute video titled 'Naya Bharat' on Sunday.
In the video, he had indirectly called Shinde a "traitor," prompting Sena workers to vandalize the studio where he performed.
Backlash
Shinde Sena workers protested against Kamra's performance
The studio was later compelled to shut shop.
Habitat Studio released an official statement on Instagram expressing shock and concern over the acts of vandalism by Shiv Sena workers.
They also said they have never interfered with any artist's content but are re-evaluating their approach.
"The recent events have made us rethink about how we get blamed and targeted every time almost like we are a proxy for the performer," it said.
Defiance
Kamra refuses to apologize amid controversy
In the aftermath, an FIR was lodged against Kamra by MIDC police based on complaints received, which has now been transferred to Khar police for investigation.
Kamra, however, has stood firm by his remarks and condemned the vandalism of his performance venue.
He stated on social media, "I will not apologize... I don't fear this mob & I will not be hiding under my bed, waiting for this to die down."
Phone call
Phone between Shinde supporter, Kamra surface
In response to threats from Shinde's supporters, Kamra told one such individual that he was in Tamil Nadu and would meet them there.
During the unverified phone call, the person is heard abusing Kamra, threatening he would face the same fate as the studio.
"Tu jidhar milega na b***we, tera bhi vo he haal hoga (Wherever I find you, you'll meet the same fate)," the caller is heard saying.
Kamra then responded, "Aaja Tamil Nadu, main yahi milunga."