Kunal Kamra Case: Navi Mumbai Banker Cuts Short Trip After Police Notice – Report

Kunal Kamra Case: A banker from Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, had to reportedly cut short his vacation to Kerala and Tamil Nadu and return to Mumbai after repeated calls from Khar police to appear for questioning as a witness in a case lodged against comedian Kunal Kamra.

The 46-year-old banker got "repeated" calls and was also issued a notice on March 29 under Section 179 of CrPC, requesting his presence, according to a report by the Times of India.

The case stems from a video titled 'Naya Bharat' released online on March 24. In the episode, Kamra alluded to Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde as 'gaddar' (traitor) which triggered at least a dozen Shiv Sainiks to vandalise the Habitat studio. The Shiv Sena also filed a complaint against Kamra.

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"I had left Mumbai on March 21 for the trip and was supposed to return on April 6. But i returned midway after repeated calls from the police while I was in Tamil Nadu. The officer who called me was skeptical about my out-my-town status and threatened to visit my Kharghar residence. This prompted me to cut short my trip and return early," the banker told TOI.

He further added, "Despite me saying that I had booked a ticket for the show online and that I had proof of booking, the cops said I might have edited the video Kamra has recorded. Why will the comedian hand over his shows video to me (for editing)?"

Meanwhile, Mumbai Police on Tuesday denied reports that audience members were being issued notices in connection with the ongoing case. According to PTI, a senior police officer confirmed that no member of the audience had been summoned for inquiry.

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The controversy stems from Kamra’s YouTube special Naya Bharat, released on March 24. The show triggered outrage from Shiv Sena workers aligned with Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, particularly over a segment in which Kamra allegedly referred to Shinde as a “gaddar” (traitor). The backlash led to vandalism at the venue where the show was filmed.

So far, three FIRs have been filed against the comedian, and Kamra has been granted interim protection from arrest by the Madras High Court. The police have also begun recording statements from the cameraperson and other staff involved in the recording of the show. Authorities have assured they will ensure Kamra’s safety during his appearance for questioning.

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