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Andhare refuses to apologise before privileges committee
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sushama Andhare refused to apologise before the state legislature’s privileges committee for her remarks about Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, aligning with Kamra’s stance on freedom of expression. The case stems from a March 2025 controversy sparked by a satirical song and a subsequent breach of privilege motion.
Why It Matters
The episode highlights tensions between freedom of expression and legislative dignity, with the privileges committee weighing accountability for public statements by lawmakers and their aides.
Timeline
3 Events
Andhare appears before the privileges committee; declines to apologise
May 11, 2026
Andhare appeared before the state legislature’s privileges committee, faced 23 questions, and refused to apologise either orally or in writing. She argued that her social media post did not name Shinde and claimed it targeted those who vandalised a venue linked to Kamra’s program. She stated she backed Kamra on constitutional grounds. Committee chair Prasad Lad described her as evasive. The panel indicated it would seek legal opinions and submit a report during the forthcoming monsoon session.
Kamra holds his ground; Andhare backs him
April 9, 2025
Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra defended his satire on April 9, 2025, with Sushama Andhare supporting him, asserting that the satire fell within the constitutional framework of freedom of expression.
Breach of privilege motion filed by Pravin Darekar against Andhare and Kamra
March 2025
BJP MLC Pravin Darekar moved a breach of privilege motion over the alleged insult to Maharashtra deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde and the state legislature following Kamra's satirical reference to Shinde as a traitor and a turncoat in March 2025.