Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra remains steadfast in his refusal to apologize for his recent comments targeting Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, amidst escalating controversy and venue vandalism in Mumbai.

In a defiant statement late Monday night, Kamra addressed the fallout from his comedy show at the Habitat Comedy Club in Khar, where he altered lyrics of a popular Hindi movie song to criticize Shinde's political career.

"I will not apologise... I don't fear this mob & I will not be hiding under my bed, waiting for this to die down," Kamra wrote and added that his statement was exactly what "Mr. Ajit Pawar (1st deputy CM) said about Mr. Eknath Shinde (2nd Deputy CM)".

The comedian condemned the vandalism at the venue by Shiv Sena members, likening it to an irrational response. "The vandalism was senseless," Kamra stated, comparing it to overturning a lorry of tomatoes due to dissatisfaction with butter chicken.

Kamra defended his right to free speech, rebuffing calls for apology from Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis while receiving support from opposition leader Uddhav Thackeray, Congress, and CPI (M). He challenged political figures threatening retribution over his satirical commentary on public figures.

"Your inability to take a joke at the expense of a powerful public figure does not change the nature of my right. As far as I know, it is not against the law to poke fun at our leaders and the circus that is our political system. However, I am willing to cooperate with the police and courts for any lawful action taken against me.

Addressing the civic response to the incident, Kamra criticized the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation for dismantling a structure at the venue without prior notice. Looking forward, Kamra hinted at using iconic structures like the Elphinstone Bridge for future performances, referencing its impending demolition by Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority.

Amidst legal developments, police arrested Shiv Sena functionary Rahul Kanal and others involved in the venue's vandalism, subsequently granting them bail.

Kamra concluded by reaffirming his willingness to cooperate with lawful proceedings while questioning the unequal application of law against those resorting to vandalism as a response to comedic expression.