JALANDHAR: Reacting strongly to former chief minister Parkash Singh Badal's statement that there was threat to the Hindu-Sikh unity and communal harmony in the state, Punjab Congress chief Sunil Jakhar said it was a highly-provocative statement."Such a provocative statement does not behove a seasoned politician like Badal. He is trying to give the issue a communal turn when all communities have been on the same page on the issue for the last three years," Jakhar said, while addressing a press conference on Monday.Mounting further attack on the former CM, Jakhar said, "Badal senior has tried to vilify Hindus who have been equally concerned about the sacrilege. They have also wanted punishment for the guilty. It is a blatant attempt to create a communal rift even as there has never been a communal angle to the entire issue. Badal is expressing apprehension when there is none, rather his statement can give excuse to mischievous elements. Only the Badals are in danger."Asked about SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal's outburst against him at the Abohar rally on Sunday, Jakhar said question remained, "Sukhbir Badal ko gussa kyon aata hai (why Sukhbir Badal is so angry)? He is angry because he has no answers to the questions being asked by me and the people. He should tell why Punjab Police filed the cancellation report just three days before the 2012 assembly polls in the case registered against Dera Sacha Sauda chief in 2007."

Stay updated with all the Latest Ludhiana headlines here. For more exclusive & live news updates from all around India, stay connected with NYOOOZ.