News Brief
Kunal Kamra Row: After Shiv Sena Workers’ Vandalism, Studio Faces BMC Action And Shuts Down, Distancing Itself From Artists
Comedian Kunal Kamra.
After Shiv Sena workers vandalised a Mumbai studio in protest against comedian Kunal Kamra’s remarks about party chief Eknath Shinde, the city's municipal authorities have taken action against the venue.
Amid ongoing controversy involving Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Shinde, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) carried out a demolition inside the studio, citing rule violations, NDTV reported.
BMC officials arrived at the Khar-based studio with hammers earlier today and proceeded with the demolition. While specific details of the alleged violations are yet to be disclosed, sources claim the studio is situated in an encroached area between two hotels.
With the BMC currently under the administration of an IAS officer, and civic body elections pending, the ruling coalition’s influence over municipal decisions is expected to spark criticism from the opposition, potentially escalating tensions further.
"We are shocked, worried, and extremely broken by the recent acts of vandalism targeting us. Artists are solely responsible for their views and creative choices. We have never been involved in the content performed by any artist, but the recent events have made us rethink how we get blamed and targeted every time—almost like we are a proxy for the performer," the studio management said.
"We are shutting down until we figure out the best way to provide a platform for free expression without putting ourselves and our property in jeopardy. We invite all artists, audiences, and stakeholders to discuss and share their views freely and request your guidance so that we also respect the performers' rights," it added.
Meanwhile, Mumbai Police have arrested 11 people in connection with the vandalism at the studio after registering a case against them. A First Information Report (FIR) against Kamar has also been filed.
