Accused of regional bias over Punjab floods, Kapil Sharma issues clarification

Tribune Web Desk 
Chandigarh, August 23

Host Kapil Sharma came forward to show his support for the flood-stricken Punjab on Thursday. 

The comedian-turned-actor, via a short video, explained the situation to his fans that the floods had left several families in the northern state homeless. 

He added that the floods had destroyed several crops, and people--from senior citizens to children--had been suffering. 

Kapil urged his fans to help the people in whatever way possible.

The 38-year-old actor wrote: “Punjab floods appeal: pls come forward to support your brothers n sisters 🙏 #punjabfloods #HumanityFirst @Khalsa_Aid @RaviSinghKA @amarpreet_ka.”

Punjab floods appeal: pls come forward to support your brothers n sisters 🙏 #punjabfloods #HumanityFirst @Khalsa_Aid @RaviSinghKA @amarpreet_ka pic.twitter.com/b3hEnO5JMY

— Kapil Sharma (@KapilSharmaK9) August 22, 2019

While the star was appreciated for the initiative, there were several comments on social media that accused the actor of regional bias. 

People questioned: “Why didn’t Kapil make an appeal to help the citizens of the flood-affected Maharashtra was a common remark”.

After an hour, Kapil shared another video where he made an appeal for the people in Maharashtra. He wrote: “Maharashtra flood appeal: “pls come forward to support your own people. Jai Hind.”

Maharashtra flood appeal: pls come forward to support your own people. Jai Hind 🙏 pic.twitter.com/y6jG8oajRM

— Kapil Sharma (@KapilSharmaK9) August 22, 2019

However, Kapil was not pleased by the negative reaction on social media. The comedian called the trolls “bewakoof”. He added one needed to rise above “Bihari, Punjabi, Marathi, Madrasi” to stand by the ones who were suffering.

विनती 🙏 pic.twitter.com/fvKHmVVvbg

— Kapil Sharma (@KapilSharmaK9) August 22, 2019

Twitter reactions: 

@KapilSharmaK9 you North Indian people never supported South Indian people during floods but we South people are always ready to help everyone #PunjabFloods #HumanityFirst

— Siddharth hulmani (@Siddharthhulman) August 22, 2019

We definitely sympathize with our Punjabi brothers and sisters. But @KapilSharmaK9, shame on your insensitivity towards people who suffered from severe floods in MH, where were you hiding ? You are earning name and money in Maharashtra. You are UNGRATEFUL !😡

— Marathirakshak (@marathirakshak) August 22, 2019

Always support n blessings for ur humanity KAPIL JI🙏🙏🙏

— PoonamKAPILIAN💜💚 (@KAPILIANPoonam) August 22, 2019

Earning money from Maharashtra, living in Maharashtra, eating in Maharashtra... Still no words uttered by you during #MaharashtraFloods #boycottkapilsharma

— Saish0901 (@Saish09251) August 22, 2019

Dear @KapilSharmaK9 what about #MaharashtraFloods no words???? 😡

— Gangadhar V Wagadari (@imGangaa) August 22, 2019