'Where is freedom of speech?' asks Jaya Bachchan as she speaks out amid Kunal Kamra controversy
comedian Kunal Kamra amid the controversy surrounding his remarks. Addressing the media at Parliament, Bachchan raised concerns about the increasing restrictions on freedom of expression in the country.
Jaya Bachchan’s Strong Words on Free Speech
Speaking to reporters, Jaya Bachchan questioned the curbs on free speech, saying, «If there is a restriction on speaking, what will become of you? You are anyway in a bad situation. There are restrictions on you. You would be told to speak just on this and nothing else, that do not interview Jaya Bachchan.»
She further criticized the political climate, stating, «Where is freedom of speech? There is freedom of action only when there is a ruckus — beat up the opposition, rape women, murder them. What else? You (Eknath Shinde) left your real party and formed another party for power. Isn't that an insult of Balasaheb?»
The Controversy Surrounding Kunal Kamra
The controversy erupted following remarks made by Kunal Kamra in his comedy special, Naya Bharat, in which he allegedly made defamatory comments about Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. The situation escalated when members of the Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction) youth wing stormed the Habitat Comedy Club in Mumbai, where Kamra’s show was recorded, disrupting an ongoing live performance and vandalizing the set.
An FIR was subsequently filed against both Kamra for his comments and against members of the Shiv Sena youth wing for their actions.
Political Reactions to the Incident
Several political figures,
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