Karnataka Minister Clarifies Islam Remarks, Says All Faiths Equal
Basavaraj Rayaraddi clarifies his remarks on Islam, stating he respects all religions equally and highlighted only positive values.
Higher Education Minister Basavaraj Rayaraddi on Monday sought to clarify remarks he made about Islam during an event in Kuknoor, Koppal district, the previous day. Speaking to reporters in Yelburga, he asserted that he holds no disrespect for any religion and treats all faiths with equal regard.
"I have only highlighted the positive values of Islam. I have never intended to suggest that other faiths are any less significant," he said. The Minister reiterated that he spoke about the noble ideas within Islam and did not claim other religions were inferior. "I have said that all religions are great. What is wrong in saying that?" he asked.
Mr. Rayaraddi stated that he does not belong to any particular religion and that his comments should be understood in the context in which they were made. He noted that he has studied Islam, Christianity, and Judaism and has visited holy places associated with different faiths, including the tomb of Jesus Christ.
Addressing questions about his remarks on the Haj pilgrimage, the Minister said there was nothing wrong in expressing his desire to visit the holy city and explaining his reasons for not having undertaken the journey. He added that he occasionally visits religious institutions with family or others but does not go on his own.
On Sunday, at a Shadi Mahal in Kuknoor, the Minister had described Islam as a religion rooted in humanity and said it was superior to other religions. He had urged people to understand its fundamental principles and history, and stated that the Quran is not meant exclusively for Muslims. He also mentioned giving up the idea of the Haj pilgrimage on the understanding that conversion to Islam was required.
He cautioned against religious and caste-based fundamentalism, saying that merely offering prayers at a mosque or visiting a temple is insufficient for a pious life. He stressed that virtues common to different faiths should be reflected in people's lives and that religion should not be used for political gain or to foment discord.
The remarks drew criticism from the Opposition, prompting the Minister to offer this clarification while speaking to the media in Koppal on Monday.