Kunal Kamra Appears Before Privileges Committee, Denies Wrongdoing in Satire Row

Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra on Thursday appeared before the legislative Privileges Committee in connection with the controversy surrounding his song ‘Thane Ki Rickshaw’, which allegedly indirectly targeted Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. 

Kamra arrived wearing a T-shirt featuring a photo of spiritual leader Osho with the message: “I’m not bad, you do not like it,” drawing attention even before the proceedings began.

During the hearing, Kamra maintained that he had committed no wrongdoing, describing the song as part of his professional work and a form of satire.

The hearing was conducted under the chairmanship of MLC Prasad Lad. BJP MLC Pravin Darekar, who had moved the breach of privilege motion against Kamra, was also present, leading to a direct face-off between the two during the proceedings.

Since the hearing was conducted in Marathi, Kamra was accompanied by a translator. He responded to questions only after they were explained to him in a language he was comfortable with.

Later, taking to X, Kamra shared his version of the exchange, stating that when asked about remorse and apology, his answers were clear. “Do you feel remorse – No. Are you sorry about what you said? No. If you tender an unconditional apology, this matter will be looked at differently. No, I can’t, as the apology would not be sincere. Also, it would set a terrible precedent for other artists & their freedom,” he wrote.

Speaking after the hearing, Lad said the committee has sought additional documents from Kamra before arriving at a final decision. He added that while six such cases have been dealt with so far, punishment was awarded in only one instance. Lad also noted that Kamra remained polite throughout the proceedings and relied on a translator to understand the discussions fully.

The committee will now examine the documents submitted to determine whether Kamra’s act amounts to a breach of privilege or falls within the ambit of professional satirical expression.

The hearing in a separate breach of privilege case against Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sushma Andhare has been deferred by a week.