• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

Reacting over the recent controversy that took place after comedian Kunal Kamra’s ‘traitor’ jibe at Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that freedom of expression does not give anyone permission to make personal comments about others.

Notably, Kamra said his right to freedom of expression immunes him against any potential repercussions following the outrage sparked by his remarks.

ALSO READ: UP School Summer Vacation: THESE Govt Schools To Remain Open During May-June Break; Here's Why 

"It is unfortunate that some people have taken the freedom of expression as their birthright to tear apart the nation and widen the divide," CM Yogi said in a podcast with news agency ANI. 

Mumbai Police summoned Kamra to record his statement today after multiple complaints were filed against him over comments on Shiv Sena Eknath Shinde. However, he did not come. The comedian’s lawyer contacted police and sought seven-day time, officials said, adding that further action will be initiated after taking legal opinion. 

Kamra, in his first reaction over the row, categorically said he would not apologise for his comment, asserting that making jokes about leaders was not unlawful. 

“Our right to freedom of speech and expression is not only to be used to fawn over the powerful and rich even though today's media would have us believe otherwise. Your inability to take a joke at the expense of a powerful public figure does not change the nature of my right. As far as I know, it is not against the law to poke fun at our leaders and the circus that is our political system,” he said.

He also condemned the mob vandalism at Habitat, the venue where he made the ‘controversial’ remarks, asserting that the incident had no bearing on his words.

“An entertainment venue is merely a platform. A space for all sorts of shows. Habitat (or any other venue) is not responsible for my comedy, nor does it have any power or control over what I say or do. Neither does any political party. Attacking a venue for a comedian's words is as senseless as overturning a lorry carrying tomatoes, because you didn't like the butter chicken you were served,” he said.

ALSO READ: India And China Hold Key Border Talks In Beijing; Diplomatic Ties, Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra Take Centre Stage 

Kamra, however, maintained that he would cooperate with the police during the investigation.