Karnataka Minister’s praise for Islam triggers BJP-Congress clash
Karnataka Higher Education Minister Basavaraj Rayareddi has landed in the middle of a political controversy after describing Islam as a “great religion” while addressing a Muslim community mass marriage event in Koppal district.
Speaking at the programme in Kuknoor on Sunday, Rayareddi said he had studied different religions and their histories and believed there were several misconceptions about Islam.
He described Islam as a disciplined, scientific and humane faith and urged people to learn from the positive aspects of all religions rather than becoming communal or caste-minded.
Rayareddi also spoke about his desire to visit Mecca, saying he could not do so because of the religious requirements associated with entry into the holy city. His comments drew a strong response from BJP leader and Leader of the Opposition R Ashoka.
Ashoka accused the minister of placing Sanatana Dharma in a lesser position and demanded that Rayareddi withdraw his remarks and apologise. He also called on Chief Minister D K Shivakumar to remove Rayareddi from the cabinet if the minister refused to apologise.
Ashoka questioned whether the Congress government’s claims of respecting all religions were consistent with Rayareddi’s comments. He further alleged that the party was using religious outreach for electoral purposes.
The dispute has added another issue to the continuing political confrontation between the BJP and Congress in Karnataka.