‘No Ulterior Political Motives’: Prashant Kishor Backs Kunal Kamra Amid ‘Gaddaar’ Controversy

Prashant Kishor defended comedian Kunal Kamra, saying he has no political motives. Kamra faces backlash over his 'gaddaar' remark on Shinde.

Kunal Kamra's recent stand-up comedy has landed him in hot water.

Source : PTI

Prashant Kishor, Jan Suraaj chief and former election strategist, has come out in support of his “friend” stand-up comic Kunal Kamra. He said that Kamra has no “ulterior motives” and said he does not have any plans to join politics. This comes following the huge controversy over Kamra’s 'gaddaar' (traitor) jibe at Eknath Shinde.

According to India Today, Kishor was speaking to reporters in Bihar's Kathihar when he described Kamra as a friend and denied allegations that the comedian was motivated by a political agenda.

"Kunal Kamra is my friend. He made certain remarks that led to controversy. However, from what I know of him, he has no hidden motives. Those who think he is playing politics are mistaken — he is not involved in that," Kishor was quoted in the report.

He further said that the comedian who lives in Puducherry does organic farming and that stand-up comedy is something he does on the side. He further added, “He has no political rivalry and is among those who genuinely love their country. Perhaps he chose his words poorly. If he has done anything wrong, legal action should take its course. But I can confidently say that he respects the country and its Constitution".

His performance, featuring a parody song aimed at the Deputy Chief Minister, quickly went viral on social media. It triggered a strong backlash from Shiv Sena supporters.

Police cases have been filed against him, the venue of the show was vandalised, and death threats were issued by right-wing groups. Political leaders, including Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, have also condemned him.

Madras HC Grants Interim Bail

On Friday, the Madras High Court granted interim anticipatory bail to stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra till April 7 in connection with an FIR lodged against him in Mumbai over his alleged remarks against Shinde.

Despite the case being registered at Khar police station in Mumbai, Kamra, a resident of Tamil Nadu, approached the Madras High Court seeking protection. His counsel, V Suresh, pressed for urgent relief, citing multiple death threats the comedian had received following the release of his latest stand-up video. Justice Sunder Mohan observed that he was “prima facie satisfied that Kamra is unable to approach the courts in Maharashtra for protection.” The court, therefore, granted him interim anticipatory bail.

Last week, Sena activists vandalised the Habitat Comedy Club in suburban Khar, where his show had taken place, and the hotel where the club is located. A defiant Kamra stood his ground and refused to apologise.