Comics now want lawyers on sets

The sudden and shocking manner in which Kiku Sharda was taken into custody for allegedly hurting religious sentiments has triggered off a fear psychosis among television’s well-known stand-up comedians who are now wondering what exactly they should avoid to get into trouble.

Says a source, “We are constantly walking on  glass while trying to raise a cheer. Who knows what we say to generate laughter that could trigger off a negative reaction in some community or individual?”

Apparently the comedy sector on television has taken a decision to stay completely away from jokes on godmen and politicians.

Says a popular comic actor known for his digs at celebrities from showbiz, “If I spoof Jagjit Singh’s ghazals his fans or his wife or both may object. They may even sue me for my bad pronunciation of Urdu words. If I do a send-up on Amitabh Bachchan his fans from Afghanistan may sue from their country. How will I keep running to Afghanistan? Who will pay my legal bills?”

It is felt by the comic community that enough was not done to protect Kiku Sharda from being arrested.

“Pre-emptive action could have been taken. The offending show happened in December. The channel could’ve applied for Kiku’s anticipatory bail. It is frightening to be taken away by the cops in the middle of the night. In future we want a lawyer to be present when we are recording our skits to ensure we do nothing libelous,” says a colleague of Kiku from Comedy Nights With Kapil.