Hearing on breach of privilege complaint against comedian Kunal Kamra now on March 10

Mumbai: The hearing on the complaint regarding breach of privilege against stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has been rescheduled to March 10.Kamra had made a mention of Dy CM Eknath Shinde in a song parody a year ago alluding to the 2022 split in the Shiv Sena. BJP MLC Pravin Darekar had raised objections and moved a breach of privilege motion stating it was derogatory and lowered the dignity of the House. A similar motion was also moved against Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sushma Andhare for her remarks against Shinde.
The song had been performed at a studio in Mumbai which was vandalised by Shiv Sena party workers when the recording of the performance was released online. While Kamra and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sushma Andhare were present at Vidhan Bhavan on Tuesday and asked for their statements to be recorded, the main complainant Pravin Darekar was not present for the hearing.Later speaking to the media both Kamra wearing a black T-shirt with "the Constitution of India " sticker emblazoned on it, and Andhare said their statements were not recorded as Darekar was not present."I respect the Constitution. I appeared before the privileges committee today but the hearing did not take place. I will attend the next hearing as well. I will respond to the allegations against me," said Kamra.An earlier hearing on February 5 too had been adjourned. Kamra had then issued a lengthy statement stating he had not sought the adjournment rather he had come for the hearing and later been informed by a Vidhan Bhavan official that it had been adjourned.Asked about the threats from the Shiv Sena if he ever visited Mumbai, Kamra said he felt safe.Prasad Lad, the chairperson of the privileges committee said, "Kamra told the committee he was ready to record his statement. However, it was felt it would not be appropriate to record Kamra's statement in the absence of the main complainant. After consultation with Darekar, it was decided to hold the hearing on March 10 at 4 pm," he said.