New Delhi: Actor and host Shekhar Suman has addressed what he calls a misconception surrounding his weekly YouTube satire program, Shekhar Tonite, insisting that the show is not targeted against the BJP-led central government. In an interview with media channel The Lallantop, Suman stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is not so fragile that he or his administration would feel threatened or offended by the program's sharp comedic monologues.
Suman emphasized that his brand of satire is never directed at any specific political party or singular leader, but rather focuses on systemic failures and the individuals holding administrative responsibilities. Drawing a comparison, he likened the government to a classroom monitor, explaining that if the monitor fails in their duties, the public naturally holds them accountable regardless of who is in power. He noted that he adopted the exact same approach decades ago with his late-night talk show Movers And Shakers, which aired during both BJP and Congress administrations.
The host maintained that his commentary is intended to be pro-people rather than anti-anyone, serving as a platform to amplify public voices. While acknowledging his respect for both Prime Minister Modi and opposition leader Rahul Gandhi, Suman asserted that pointing out governance flaws is entirely legitimate. Addressing instances of critical videos allegedly disappearing from social media, he remarked that while systemic issues are evident, political leadership cannot be held directly responsible for every such instance.
Suman confirmed that he has never received calls from the BJP government demanding the removal of his content, and instead reported receiving messages and visits from politicians expressing appreciation. He stated his belief that the Prime Minister is powerful and occupied with major global affairs, adding that leadership figures naturally possess a sense of humor and understand that satire remains a normal part of a healthy democracy. He also recalled initial public speculation that his program would be abruptly shut down after its premiere, questioning why anyone would attempt to stop it when the Prime Minister has previously expressed openness to constructive critique.
The actor also commented on Enforcement Directorate raids that took place at the office of the show's producer, Dharmesh Sangani, following a monologue regarding dictatorships. Suman stated he deliberately chose not to link the financial investigation to the content of his program, pointing out that Sangani is an independent businessman with various other professional dealings. Despite the administrative scrutiny, Suman praised the producer for continuing to support the production voluntarily without letting fear interfere with their creative work.