Kamra's jibe is like taking 'supari' to speak against a person: Shinde
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Mumbai (PTI): Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has likened comedian Kunal Kamra's jibe at him to taking "supari" (contract) to speak against someone, and said there should be a decorum while making a satire, otherwise the "action causes a reaction".
Freedom of speech is there, but there should be a limit, Shinde said on Monday reacting to Kamra's comments.
The Shiv Sena leader further said he does not focus on who says what as his work speaks for him.
The 36-year-old stand-up comedian has kicked up a major political storm in Maharashtra for taking a jibe at Shinde's political career in his show.
Kamra had performed a parody of a popular Hindi song from the film "Dil Toh Pagal Hai," apparently referring to Shinde as a "gaddar" (traitor). He also made jokes about recent political developments in Maharashtra, including the Shiv Sena and NCP splits.
On Sunday night, Shiv Sena members damaged the Habitat Comedy Club in Mumbai's Khar area, where Kamra's show took place, as well as a hotel in whose premises the club is located.
"Freedom of speech is there. We understand satire. But there should be a limit. This is like taking 'supari' (contract) to speak against someone," Shinde said at a BBC Marathi event.
On the Shiv Sainiks vandalising the studio where Kamra had performed and made those remarks, Shinde said the other person should also maintain a certain level.
"Otherwise, action causes reaction," he said.
"I will not speak much on this. I do not justify vandalism," the Dy CM added.
"This same person (Kamra) had commented on the Supreme Court of India, the Prime Minister, (journalist) Arnab Goswami and some industrialists. This is not freedom of speech; this is working for someone," Shinde said.
Kamra has said he will not apologise for his controversial comments about Shinde and criticised the vandalism of the venue in Mumbai where the comedy show was recorded.
Shinde emphasised his commitment to prioritising development and welfare schemes over responding to allegations.
"Nowadays, I don't reply to allegations. I say my work will be my reply. I've always prioritised work. All the projects like Atal Setu, Coastal Road (both in Mumbai) and Metro projects had stopped abruptly. We restarted them, giving priority to development and welfare schemes," he said.
The deputy CM further highlighted several welfare initiatives, including the 'Ladki Bahin' scheme, the 'Lakhpati Didi' scheme, and the decision to make education free for girls.
The state government has taken many decisions and implemented the necessary government resolutions (GRs), Shinde said.
"So, I don't focus on who says what; I answer them through my work," he added.
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Eid namaz on road: Meerut Police warns of strict action that may lead to passport cancellation
Meerut, Mar 28 (PTI): Ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr and last Friday prayers of Ramzan, Meerut Police has issued strict warnings against unauthorised roadside prayers, saying violators will face strict legal action that may lead to their passports getting cancelled and driving licences revoked.
Union minister and RLD chief Jayant Singh was among the first to react to this decision, when he posted on X: " Policing towards Orwellian 1984!"
In his iconic novel "Nineteen Eighty-Four", George Orwell talks about law enforcers or Thought Police who have immense powers.
SP City Ayush Vikram Singh reiterated that Eid prayers should be offered at local mosques or designated Eidgahs and that no one should perform Namaz on the roads.
"Last year, some individuals defied the directives and prayed on the roads, leading to action against more than 80 people. This time, anyone violating the rule will face strict legal action," Singh told PTI Videos, adding that notices have already been issued regarding this.
He also warned that those involved in such cases may have their passports and licences revoked.
"If criminal cases are registered against individuals, their passports and licenses can be cancelled, and obtaining a new passport would become difficult without a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the court. Such documents remain confiscated until the individuals are cleared by the court," Singh explained.
Meerut SSP Vipin Tada told PTI Videos that security agencies are coordinating closely with district administration, religious leaders, and local stakeholders to ensure a peaceful celebration.
Meetings have been conducted at both the district and police station levels, and necessary directives have been issued based on discussions with all parties.
"Strict action will be taken against those trying to spread rumours or incite unrest through social media. We are keeping a close watch on social media platforms, and any attempt to disrupt communal harmony will be dealt with firmly," the SSP said.
To bolster security, Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) and Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel have been deployed, and flag marches are being conducted in the district, Tada said. Sensitive areas have been identified based on past experiences, and special arrangements have been made there.
Tada further emphasized that the administration is working in coordination with prominent citizens and religious leaders to maintain peace and ensure smooth observance of the upcoming festivals.
To ensure law and order, Singh said that drones will be deployed for aerial surveillance, while local intelligence teams are actively monitoring the situation. Uniformed and plainclothes officers will also be stationed at all sensitive locations, he added.
