The Bombay High Court is set to hear a plea by stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra on Friday, seeking the quashing of an FIR registered against him for allegedly using the word ‘Gaddar’ (traitor) in a social media post.
Background of the Case
-
The FIR was filed in connection with a post made by Kamra that allegedly criticized political figures and used terms perceived as inflammatory.
-
The comedian has argued that the FIR is a violation of his right to free speech under Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution.
Kamra’s Stand
-
Kamra has moved the Bombay HC seeking relief from criminal proceedings, terming the FIR baseless and politically motivated.
-
He maintains that his comments were satirical and part of democratic dissent, not intended to incite hatred.
What’s Next?
-
The High Court is expected to examine the merits of the case and whether the FIR amounts to a misuse of legal provisions related to sedition or incitement.
-
The hearing will likely weigh freedom of expression vs. public order concerns.