Kunal Kamra, Sushma Andhare to face privileges committee over ‘traitor’ remark on Shinde

The Maharashtra Legislative Council’s privileges committee has summoned stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sushma Andhare for a hearing over their alleged insulting remarks against Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde . Notices were issued to both nearly 15 days ago , and the hearing was scheduled for 2 pm on Thursday, February 5 . Committee chairperson BJP MLC Prasad Lad warned that failure to appear after two summons could result in punitive action.

The action follows a breach of privilege motion filed by BJP MLC Pravin Darekar , who accused Kamra and Andhare of using derogatory language that insulted Shinde, a senior Shiv Sena leader and a key partner in the BJP-led Mahayuti coalition .

The controversy traces back to March 2025 , when Kamra performed a segment in his stand-up show “Naya Bharat” . In a song parody , he alluded to Shinde as a “gaddar” (traitor) without naming him directly, referencing Shinde’s 2022 rebellion that split the Shiv Sena and brought down the Thackeray-led Maha Vikas Aghadi government . Kamra’s lines included phrases like “from my eyes if you look at him, he appears like a traitor,” which were understood to mock Shinde’s political actions.

Kamra defended his performance, saying that “humour and satire are part of my right to joke” and that jokes are my right , rejecting calls for an apology. Meanwhile, Sushma Andhare , supporting Kamra, questioned the basis of the privilege notice against her, asking if she had actually made objectionable remarks and asserting that political commentary cannot be curtailed under the guise of privilege.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis condemned Kamra’s remarks, calling them “low-level comedy” that was unacceptable and insulting . He urged Kamra to apologise and warned that freedom of speech does not extend to defaming public leaders, insisting that Shinde represents those who carry forward Balasaheb Thackeray’s legacy. Fadnavis stated that such remarks cannot be tolerated in a democratic society and should respect political outcomes and leaders.

The incident has broader political and legal implications. Kamra’s parody led to multiple FIRs in Maharashtra by different complainants, including business owners and hoteliers, and also sparked protests and minor vandalism at venues associated with his performances. The privileges committee’s hearing underscores the tension between freedom of speech and the dignity of public office .

It remains unclear whether Kamra or Andhare will appear for the hearing. Some reports suggest scheduling conflicts could result in a rescheduling , but the committee is expected to take a decision on next steps if they do not comply.