BJP Demands Karnataka Minister’s Resignation Over Remarks on Islam

India's opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has demanded the resignation of Karnataka Higher Education Minister Basavaraj Rayareddi over remarks in which he described Islam as "superior to other religions." The demand comes just two days after another state minister resigned over corruption allegations.

According to Indian media reports, the BJP has asked Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar to ensure that Rayareddi either apologizes to the Hindu community or steps down from the cabinet.

Speaking at an event in Kukanur town in Karnataka's Koppal district, Rayareddi described Islam as a great and deeply humanitarian religion. He said Islam is based on scientific principles and teaches people how to lead their lives.

The controversy intensified after the minister stated that many people misunderstand Islam because they know little about it. He added that, in his view, "Islam is superior to other religions because it began with humanity."

Rayareddi also said he had not extensively studied the Abrahamic religions—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—and that he does not regularly visit temples or monasteries. However, he noted that he studies religion and history, which has led him to take an interest in the Abrahamic faiths.

The remarks drew strong criticism from Karnataka BJP President R. Ashoka, who accused the minister of insulting Hinduism and demanded an explanation from Chief Minister Shivakumar.

In a post on social media platform X, Ashoka criticized the Congress government, alleging that it has an anti-Hindu mindset. He questioned why the chief minister remained silent when a cabinet colleague made remarks that, according to the BJP, were disrespectful toward Sanatan Hinduism and Hindu places of worship.

Ashoka said Rayareddi should publicly withdraw his comments and apologize to Hindus across the state. If he refuses, the BJP leader argued, the chief minister should remove him from the cabinet.

The BJP's demand comes shortly after Karnataka Minister B. Nagendra resigned for the second time in two years following corruption allegations, adding to the political pressure on the ruling Congress government.

BJP spokesperson Ashok Gowda also accused the minister and the Congress government of attempting to appease certain voter groups. He urged people to study the scriptures of different religions before making comparative claims and said Rayareddi should not present himself as an authority on the subject.

Rayareddi previously served as an economic adviser to former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. He was inducted into Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar's expanded cabinet earlier this month.

Note: The report reflects statements and allegations made by political leaders. The claims regarding religious remarks and political motives remain part of an ongoing political controversy.