BMC officials begin demolishing studio where Kunal Kamra mocked Shinde
What's the story
Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) officials arrived with hammers at the Unicontinental Hotel in Mumbai on Monday following a joke by comedian Kunal Kamra targeting Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. During a performance at Habitat Studio, which is located inside the hotel, Kamra had called Shinde "gaddar." The joke drew the ire of Shiv Sena workers, who vandalized the studio on Sunday night.
Inspection
BMC officials inspect unauthorized structure
Now, the BMC has also swung into action against the studio, which is a regular hot spot for stand-up comedy shows A video posted by PTI shows BMC officials entering the hotel amid heavy protection by Maharashtra Police. They were seen inspecting plans for the ground-plus-three-story building and marking an unauthorized temporary shed at its entrance. A senior BMC official confirmed that though they had planned to remove this shed, the owners asked for more time to dismantle it themselves.
Twitter Post
BMC officials arrive with hammers
VIDEO | Kunal Kamra show controversy: BMC officials arrive at The Habitat Studio in Mumbai.
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 24, 2025
(Full video available on PTI Videos- https://t.co/dv5TRAShcC) pic.twitter.com/ItN7D1U22b
Closure
Habitat Studio temporarily closes after vandalism
Habitat Studio has already announced that it is closing temporarily following the vandalism. The venue has said it is shocked and distressed at the incident on Instagram, adding that it is not responsible for views of artists who perform at their venue. The studio emphasized that "artists are solely responsible for their views and creative choices."
Legal action
FIR filed against Shiv Sena members
An FIR was filed against Shiv Sena Yuva Sena General Secretary Rahool Kanal and 19 others for their role in the vandalism of Habitat Studio. The complaint was registered under various sections of the BNS and Maharashtra Police Act. Simultaneously, Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel has also filed a complaint against Kamra, demanding strict action and an apology within two days. He warned that if Kamra does not apologize, Shiv Sainiks would ensure he cannot move freely in Mumbai.