Mumbai, Sept 7: Congress leader and former Maharashtra minister Subodh Saoji has announced a Rs 5 lakh bounty for anyone who "chops off the tongue" of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Ram Kadam.

Saoji's bounty against Kadam comes in the backdrop of the latter's controversial "kidnap women" remark while addressing a gathering of zealous youth at a Dahi Handi fest in his constituency Ghatkopar.

"I strongly condemn the remarks of the BJP legislator. He poses a threat to the safety of women in our state. I would present Rs 5 lakh to anyone who chops off his dirty tongue," Saoji said.

Watch Saoji announcing the bounty against Kadam:

The controversial remarks were issued by Kadam on Monday, when Dahi Handi celebrations were being held in Mumbai and other parts of Maharashtra.

Kadam told the gathering of youths that he would kidnap the girl of their choice if she rejects their proposal for marriage.

"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," the Ghatkopar MLA said.

Watch Kadam's controversial 'kidnap women' remark:

The Opposition in Maharashtra protested over the last two days against Kadam's remark, demanding Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to take strict action against him.

Apart from the Opposition, the Shiv Sena has also demanded its ally, the BJP, to act against the legislator. The BJP should "clarify whether it is promoting Beti Bhagao", said Sena supremo Uddhav Thackeray, adding that not only should Kadam be sacked, but no party should offer him ticket in the next assembly elections.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 07, 2018 09:03 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).