Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has approached the Madras High Court seeking transit anticipatory bail in connection with an FIR lodged against him in Mumbai over his alleged remarks on Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

Kamra, a permanent resident of Villupuram, Tamil Nadu, argues that the Madras High Court has jurisdiction over his plea. His counsel made an urgent mention of the case before Justice Sunder Mohan on March 28.

The FIR, initially registered as a Zero FIR by Shiv Sena MLA Muraji Patel, cites Sections 353(1)(b), 353(2) (public mischief), and 356(2) (defamation) under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The case was later transferred to Khar police station in Mumbai.

Although Kamra did not explicitly name Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, Shiv Sena workers allege that he called Shinde a “traitor” in reference to his split from the party. Enraged by his remarks, a group of Shiv Sena workers vandalized Mumbai’s Habitat Studio, where Kamra had performed. Twelve people were arrested in connection with the attack but were later granted bail.

During the hearing, Kamra’s counsel informed the court that the comedian has been receiving death threats following his show. The court is set to hear the matter after recess today.