Now, Congressman announces reward for BJP leader Ram Kadam's tongue
Amid the controversy which sparked after BJP leader Ram Kadam said he would kidnap girls for jilted boys, Congress leader and former Maharashtra minister Subodh Saoji has announced a reward on Kadam's tongue. In a widely circulated video, Saoji said he will give Rs. 5 lakh to anyone who chops Kadam's tongue, making way for a new row. Here's more about this.
In a bid to condemn Kadam, Saoji announces reward
At an event in Buldhana in Maharashtra, Saoji condemned Kadam's words and said it didn't suit his position. He then went on to say, "Therefore, I am announcing a Rs. 5 lakh reward for anyone who comes forward and cuts off his tongue."
Watch: Saoji calls for Kadam's tongue to be chopped
Context: Kadam's remarks were problematic, to say the least
At a recent dahi handi festival, Ram Kadam made problematic remarks when he said he would kidnap girls for boys. "I will help, 100 per cent. Come (to me) with your parents. What will I do if parents approve? I will kidnap the girl concerned and hand her over to you (for marriage)," Kadam had said. His comments were widely criticized, and rightly so.
Women Commission served notice to Kadam, Opposition demanded action
The Maharashtra Women Commission served a notice to Kadam and gave him 8-days to clarify his remarks. Meanwhile, the Opposition demanded strict actions against Kadam, whose comments have earned him the title of 'Raavan Kadam' on social media. NCP spokesman Nawab Malik asked Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to register FIR against Kadam which can lead to his subsequent arrest.
Notably, BJP has remained tight lipped on the controversy
Even as the uproar is catching momentum every day, BJP has not addressed the issue. The only BJP leader who has broken silence is spokesperson Shaina NC. On Thursday, she said she was shocked at Kadam's words. She said the idea that women are seen as an object hurt her. Shaina added, "I was quite shocked and I will say it quite openly."
Facing flak, Kadam says video was twisted, issues half-hearted apology
"A clip of mine was circulated by my rivals. It was used out of context but despite that, without giving any justification or clarification, I tender an apology to all mothers and sisters of Maharashtra whose sentiments I might have unknowingly hurt by my comments," Kadam said.
