Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Tuesday broke his silence on the ongoing controversy revolving around comedian Kunal Kamra. Shinde stated that though he does not support the vandalism of the studio by Shiv Sena workers, he senses a "well-thought-out conspiracy" to malign his name.
Speaking to BBC News Marathi, Shinde said, "The right to express is important in a democracy, but saying anything under its guise and on someone’s instructions is wrong. He has said many things about PM Modi, CJI, FM Sitharaman, and HM Shah. He has been making such remarks repeatedly."
"Many airlines have banned him. Who is behind him? I’m not worried; many allegations have been made against him. I do not support the vandalism of the studio—that was due to the emotions of the party workers. This looks like a well-thought-out conspiracy," he added.
The controversy erupted after Kunal Kamra released a comedy gig on Sunday night, in which he took a controversial ‘gaddar’ jibe at Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
After the video went viral, angered by Kunal's remark, a group of Shiv Sena workers ransacked The Habitat studio, the place where the video was allegedly recorded. Following the vandalism, Shiv Sena leaders filed multiple complaints against the comedian.
On Monday, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation carried out the demolition of an illegal structure at the studio. Meanwhile, on Tuesday, Kamra released a second video targeting Shiv Sena leaders and workers who allegedly vandalized the studio.
