Stand-up comedian and political satirist Kunal Kamra appeared before the Privileges Committee of the Maharashtra Legislative Council on Tuesday in connection with a breach of privilege case. However, the committee adjourned the hearing to March 10 after the main complainant failed to attend.
The complaint relates to a controversial parody song that made references to Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. BJP leader Pravin Darekar, who filed the motion, was absent during the proceedings.
Kunal Kamra and Sushma Andhare Appear Before Panel
Kunal Kamra reached Vidhan Bhavan in Mumbai along with Sushma Andhare, who also faces the complaint for sharing or supporting the parody content online.
Both were prepared to record their statements before the committee. However, committee chairperson Prasad Lad said the panel could not proceed without the complainant’s presence.
The Kunal Kamra Privilege Case has drawn wide attention as it raises questions around political satire, free speech, and legislative privilege.
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Statements to Be Recorded Together, Says Committee
Speaking about the decision, Prasad Lad said Kamra expressed readiness to record his statement immediately. Still, the committee felt it would be inappropriate to do so in the absence of the complainant.
According to PTI, the committee decided to record statements from both sides on the same day. After discussing the matter with Darekar, the panel fixed the next hearing for March 10 at 4 PM.
Parody Song Triggered Political Row
The controversy began last year when Kamra performed a satirical version of a popular Hindi film song during a live show. Many interpreted the song as a comment on the 2022 Maharashtra political split that led to the fall of the Uddhav Thackeray-led government.
The parody later circulated widely on social media. It drew strong reactions from leaders and supporters of Shinde’s faction. In one incident, a group of Shiv Sena workers allegedly vandalised the venue where Kamra had performed.
Political observers say the case could set an important precedent for how satire and criticism of elected leaders are treated by legislative bodies. The next hearing is expected to clarify the committee’s stand and the legal course ahead.
