Badal describes Centre's stand on Rama as 'shocking'

Chandigarh, Sep 13 (UNI) Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today described as ''shocking, beyond belief and utterly insensitive'' the Centre's reported stand before the Supreme Court questioning the very existence of Lord Rama.

In a statement here, Mr Badal demanded that the government tender a timely and unconditional apology ''for having grievously hurt religious sentiments of the people.

He also demanded strict action against the officials responsible for the blunder.

The holy scriptures, including the Ramayana, are the central tenets of faith of millions of people and have been handed down from generation to generation, he added.

''To doubt historical authenticity of these scriptures and of the holy personages who figured in these is an unbelievably thoughtless action. The government must make amends for this grave lapse,'' he said.

UNI