Actor Prakash Raj shared a light-hearted photo with comedian Kunal Kamra on April 11, amid rising political tension surrounding the latter. The image, posted on X, showed both men smiling and dressed in black. What stood out was Raj’s caption: “Tamil Nadu kaise pahunchneka bhai ..?? Simple... Auto mein,” a direct reference to a widely circulated audio clip involving Kamra and a Shiv Sena functionary.

The caption alluded to a leaked phone call in which a Shiv Sena worker allegedly threatened Kamra over a satirical video targeting Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. In the call, the individual is heard using abusive language and warning Kamra that he would meet the same fate as the studio where the video was shot. Kamra, however, remained unbothered and repeatedly invited the caller to meet him in Tamil Nadu.

What happened after Kamra’s satirical video?
The backlash followed Kamra’s parody of a song from the 1997 film Dil Toh Pagal Hai, which mocked Shinde. In response, Shiv Sena members vandalised the Habitat Studio where the video was filmed. Days later, the BMC began demolishing parts of the studio premises.

What did Kamra say about the threats?
Kamra later issued a detailed statement defending his right to satire, stating that making fun of public figures does not violate any laws. He asserted that personal discomfort with political humour does not override legal rights.

What is the legal status of the case?
The Mumbai Police had earlier registered an FIR against Kamra based on a complaint by Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel. Two summonses were issued to him. Last Tuesday, the Bombay High Court granted Kamra interim protection from arrest until April 16 and sent notices to the concerned parties.