Comedian Kunal Kamra has reportedly received over 500 threatening calls and death threats after a joke he made, allegedly aimed at Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, sparked controversy. The joke, delivered at a Mumbai comedy club, The Habitat, involved a modified song from Dil Toh Pagal Hai, which did not sit well with Shiv Sena (Shinde) faction supporters.

Following the uproar, Mumbai Police summoned Kamra for questioning, but he has requested a week’s time to appear.

Many BJP and Shiv Sena leaders have criticised his comedy, stating that such remarks go beyond acceptable freedom of speech. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has reportedly stated that Kamra should apologise for referring to Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde as a ‘traitor’ during his show. He further emphasised that while stand-up comedy allows freedom of expression, it should not be misused, and legal action would follow as per the law.

Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has also added to the controversy, stating that freedom of expression should not be used for personal attacks. He reportedly expressed concerns that some individuals misuse this right to create divisions in society and escalate political tensions.

In an interview, the Uttar Pradesh CM said that some people think it is their birthright to use this freedom to tear the country apart and widen the division.