Archive · 31 Aug 2026
Karnataka Minister’s ‘Great Religion’ Remark Sparks Congress Concern
A Karnataka minister spoke positively about Islam during a speech.
He called it disciplined, scientific and humane.
He said he wants to visit Mecca and take part in the Hajj pilgrimage.
He explained that he has not done so because he is not Muslim.
He also said he usually does not visit temples or mathas.
However, he said people should study their history and teachings.
He asked people not to support religious fanaticism or casteism.
He said every religion has lessons that can help people.
Minister Rayareddy described Islam as disciplined, scientific and humane.
He said he has long wanted to visit Mecca for the Hajj pilgrimage.
Rayareddy said he could not undertake Hajj because he is not Muslim.
He said he generally does not visit temples or mathas, but their history and teachings merit study.
He urged people to reject religious fanaticism and casteism, saying all religions contain teachings that can benefit humanity.
- Who
- Karnataka minister Rayareddy.
- What
- He praised Islam, discussed his wish to undertake Hajj, and called for opposition to religious fanaticism and casteism.
- Where
- The remarks were made during a speech in Karnataka, though the specific location is not stated.
- Why
- He said all religions have positive teachings that can contribute to human welfare.
- Speaker
- Minister Rayareddy
- Religion discussed
- Islam
- Pilgrimage mentioned
- Hajj
- Destination mentioned
- Mecca
- Description of Islam
- Disciplined, scientific and humane
- Other institutions mentioned
- Temples and mathas
- Issues criticized
- Religious fanaticism and casteism
