India, March 24 -- Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra responded to the controversy over his 'traitor' remark about Maharashtra deputy chief minister and Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde on Monday night, asserting that freedom of expression should not be limited to praising the powerful. He maintained that his right to make jokes about public figures remains unchanged and stated that he will not apologise for his comment. Kamra added that he is ready to cooperate with legal authorities for any lawful action.

Following his remark, Shiv Sena workers vandalised a Mumbai studio where Kamra had recorded his show on Monday. The Habitat comedy club, which was affected by the attack, announced a temporary closure.

An FIR has already been registered aga...