New Delhi: Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra has approached the Supreme Court seeking permission to intervene in a case examining the scope of legislative privileges available to MLAs and their relationship with the constitutional right to freedom of speech and expression.

A seven-judge Constitution Bench is scheduled to hear the matter from October 6. The case will examine the interplay between legislative privilege under Article 194(3) of the Constitution and fundamental rights under Articles 19(1)(a) and 21.

Kamra said he was directly affected by the legal questions before the court, as breach-of-privilege proceedings are pending against him before the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly over his stand-up comedy special Naya Bharat.

In his intervention plea, Kamra argued that legislative privilege cannot be used to restrict criticism or silence citizens outside the legislature. He said the use of privilege against public expression could affect the freedom of speech of citizens, journalists and artists.

The proceedings against Kamra began after his satirical performance was alleged to have targeted and insulted a Maharashtra political leader. Kamra has maintained that his case raises wider questions about the limits of legislative authority and the protection available to citizens expressing political opinions.

The Supreme Court’s hearing is expected to examine whether legislative privileges can limit citizens’ fundamental rights. The outcome may have implications for comedians, journalists, artists and commentators who critique elected representatives.

The court has indicated that arguments in the matter may conclude by October 15.