Mumbai: The Bombay High Court on Friday allowed the police investigation against stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra to continue over his alleged remarks targeting Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. However, the court granted Kamra interim protection from arrest while his petition seeking the quashing of the FIR is under consideration.

A division bench comprising Justices Sarang Kotwal and S.M. Modak admitted Kamra’s petition, which challenges the first information report (FIR) lodged at the Khar police station. The FIR accuses Kamra of defamation and incitement after he allegedly referred to Shinde as a “gaddar” (traitor) during a comedy show.

“Investigation can continue. The petitioner shall not be arrested during the pendency of the petition,” the court ruled. The matter will now be heard in detail at a later date.

The court also stated that if police wish to record Kamra’s statement, they must do so in Chennai, where the comedian currently resides, and provide prior notice. Kamra had expressed concerns over travelling to Maharashtra due to alleged death threats he has received since the controversy erupted.

The court further directed that if the police were to file a chargesheet during the pendency of the petition, the trial court should not proceed with it until the High Court delivers its verdict.

Kamra, in his plea, argued that the contents of the FIR do not constitute a criminal offence even if taken at face value. He also sought protection against any coercive action, including arrest, seizure of electronic devices, or scrutiny of his financial records.

The FIR was registered following a comedy performance in Mumbai where Kamra performed a parody of a song from the film Dil To Pagal Hai, during which he used the term “gaddar” while referencing Eknath Shinde’s 2022 rebellion that led to a split in the Shiv Sena.

The incident sparked backlash from Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) supporters, some of whom allegedly vandalised the studio where the show had been recorded.

The court had previously granted Kamra interim protection from arrest while reserving its order on the matter.