Mumbai/IBNS: Popular comedian Kunal Kamra has told the police that he does not regret his controversial 'gaddar' (traitor) remark, which was deemed as a reference made to Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, NDTV quoting sources reported on Monday.

He also said he would apologise only if directed by the courts.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis demanded an apology in the Assembly this morning saying freedom of expression should not extend to "low-level comedy and disrespecting the Deputy Chief Minister".

Kamra, who spoke to the cops from Tamil Nadu, denied allegations that he was paid by the opposition to target Shinde.

As per reports, Kamra gave the cops permission to check his finances so they can confirm that no such payment was received.

What did Kamra say?

Kamra, who is best known for his outspoken nature, targeted Shinde during a comedy show by parodying the 1997 song 'Bholi Si Surat' from 'Dil To Pagal Hai'.

In an indirect sweep, Kamra referred Shinde as a 'gaddar (traitor), referring to his rebellion against Uddhav Thackeray in 2022, an episode that led to the state government's collapse and the party's split.

Following his remark, Mumbai's Habitat Studio, a popular platform for stand-up comedians in the city on Monday announced its decision to shut down after Shiv Sena (Shinde) workers vandalised it.

Mumbai studio announces shutdown after Shinde-led Shiv Sena's vandalism

Announcing its decision, Habitat Studio wrote on Instagram: "We are shocked, worried and extremely broken by the recent acts of vandalism targeting us. Artists are solely responsible for their views and creative choices."

"We have never been involved in the content performed by any Artist, but the recent events have made us rethink about how we get blamed and targeted every time, almost like we are a proxy for the performer," the studio said.

The studio further said: "We are shutting down until we figure out the best way to provide a platform for free expression without putting ourselves and our property in jeopardy."

"We invite all artists, audiences, and stakeholders to discuss and share their views freely and request your guidance so that we also respect the performers' rights," said the studio.

The studio said it has always been neutral in providing a platform for artists to share their work in any language.

Kamra's performance was hosted by the same studio where the controversial  'India's Got Latent' show was filmed.

The show triggered anger and severe protests were held following popular YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia's 'sex with parents' comment.