Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has filed a petition in the Bombay High Court seeking the quashing of an FIR lodged against him for allegedly calling Maharashtra deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde a “traitor” during a comedy show. Kamra contends that the FIR infringes upon his constitutional rights, including freedom of speech and the right to practice his profession.

The case stems from a complaint filed by Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel, who objected to Kamra's satirical take using a parody song to target Shinde's political defection. The comedian has been charged under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita sections 353(1)(b) and 356(2).

Despite police summons, Kamra has not appeared, citing his Tamil Nadu residency. The Bombay High Court will hear the plea on April 21. Kamra remains defiant, stating he won’t apologise, and claims his words mirror those of another deputy CM, Ajit Pawar.