Koppal, 31 August

Minister Basavaraj Rayaraddi on Monday defended his recent remarks praising Islam, saying there was nothing wrong with describing the religion as "great" and stressing that he did not intend to suggest that any other religion was inferior. 

Rayaraddi had earlier said, "Islam is the scientific and greatest religion in the world. I have a wish to go on Haj pilgrimage at least once." 

Clarifying his remarks, Rayaraddi said he had spoken about certain values and ideals that he admired and that his comments should not be interpreted as criticism of other faiths.  

"All religions are great. If that is what I said, what is wrong with it? This kind of discussion is not good for the Press. We speak about religions depending on the context. Every single religion is great. What is wrong with saying that? No religion is bad," he said. 

Earlier, the minister had said he does not frequently visit maths and temples but believes in respecting the teachings of all religions. 

Calling for harmony among communities, the minister urged people not to become fanatics or casteists and said that the values and good principles of every religion should be adopted in life. 

"Just going to a mosque and saying 'Allahu Akbar', or just visiting temples will not make everything right. Good principles in all religions should be adopted in life," Rayaraddi said.