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Karnataka Higher Education Minister Basavaraj Rayareddy has triggered a political controversy after describing Islam as "superior to all other religions" while addressing a mass marriage ceremony in Kukanur, Koppal district, held to mark Prophet Muhammad's birth anniversary.
Rayareddy said Islam was a "great religion" that promoted humanity and was "scientific in nature," teaching people how to live without becoming religious fanatics or casteists. It is unclear when the event was held.
He said many misconceptions were being spread about Islam and that he was willing to study the Quran, adding that the text was meant for all of humanity and not just Muslims.
The minister also said he wished to undertake the Hajj pilgrimage but had not had the opportunity to do so, noting that one had to convert to Islam. He said he rarely visits mutts or temples himself, though he tries to study the history of different religions, including Abrahamic faiths.
Rayareddy clarified that good principles exist in all religions and that similar practices are followed in temples as well. He also addressed funding for Shadi Mahals (wedding halls), stating that the government provides the funds and that no money comes from Saudi Arabia, Pakistan or other Muslim countries. He added that taking away offerings or land belonging to any religious institution, regardless of faith, was a "great sin."
The remarks drew a sharp response from the BJP, which demanded that Chief Minister DK Shivakumar direct Rayareddy to either apologise to the Hindu community or step down from the Cabinet.
Karnataka BJP chief R Ashoka accused the minister of demeaning Hinduism and "Sanatan Dharma" through his comments about not frequenting temples and mutts.
Taking to X, Ashoka questioned the Congress government's stance, referring to Shivakumar's own frequent temple visits and accusing the government of an "anti-Hindu mindset." He said the Chief Minister stayed silent when his own ministers made "derogatory statements" about Hindu faith centres.
Ashoka said Rayareddy's remarks belittled the faith of millions of Hindus and demanded his resignation if he failed to offer an apology.
