Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra is under scrutiny by the Maharashtra Legislative Council after a breach of privilege motion against him was admitted by Council Chairperson Ram Shinde. The motion has been forwarded to the Breach of Privilege Committee, chaired by BJP legislator Prasad Lad, which is expected to soon issue a notice to Kamra seeking his response.
The controversy stems from a satirical song released by Kamra during the state legislature’s budget session in March, in which he alluded to Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde as a “gaddar” (traitor), referencing Shinde’s political split from the Shiv Sena. The song triggered protests in both Houses of the legislature, leading BJP MLC Pravin Darekar to move the motion on March 26, the final day of the session.
Darekar alleged that Kamra had used derogatory language against a popular public figure, thereby breaching the privilege of the legislature. Despite the motion being submitted over two months ago, it was admitted only recently due to differences of opinion on the legal validity of such a move.
An official from Vidhan Bhavan confirmed that the privilege panel is likely to meet before the upcoming monsoon session, during which it will consider Kamra’s case and issue a formal notice to him for his explanation.
The delay in action was reportedly due to caution advised by the legislature’s legal wing, which referred to Supreme Court rulings, including the Sita Soren case, highlighting that breach of privilege motions are valid only if the alleged act obstructs legislators from discharging their duties. The legal cell expressed doubts over whether Kamra’s song met that threshold and suggested that the final decision be left to the committee.
Interestingly, a similar motion in the Legislative Assembly moved by Shiv Sena MLA Ramesh Bornare was not admitted by the Speaker, reflecting divided opinions even within the legislature on whether Kamra’s actions constitute a true breach of privilege.
Kamra, known for his politically charged satire, has yet to comment publicly on the matter. The outcome of the committee’s review will determine whether any formal censure or further legal action will follow.
