NEW DELHI: Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwad on Monday sparked a fresh controversy after he placed a bounty of Rs 11 lakh to anyone who will "chop off the tongue" of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his statements on reservations during his US trip. "While he was abroad, Rahul Gandhi said that he wants to finish off the reservation system in India. This has exposed the true face of the Congress," Gaikwad told PTI announcing the bounty.
"During his recent US visit, Rahul Gandhi talked about ending reservations. It shows the mindset that is inherently opposed to reservations. I will reward anyone who cuts off Rahul Gandhi's tongue with Rs 11 lakh," Gaikwad controversially said.
"Gandhi's comments are the biggest treachery of the people. Communities like Marathas, Dhangars and OBCs are fighting for reservation but before that, Gandhi is talking about ending its benefits," the MLA said. Calling out Rahul Gandhi for "spreading a fake narrative" by holding the constitution, the Sena MLA said it is the Congress that intends to take the country back by 400 years.
The Maharashtra BJP president Chandrashekar Bawankule, however, distanced himself and said he does not endorse the Sena MLA's remarks. BJP is a constituent of the Shiv Sena-led government in the state. "I will not support or endorse Gaikwad's comments.
However, we cannot forget that the first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru had opposed reservations saying it would affect the progress". The comments by Rahul Gandhi on his US trip.
