Karnataka minister’s ‘Islam superior to other religions’ remark triggers political uproar

IANS | August 31, 2026 2:10 PM

New Delhi, Aug 31 (IANS) The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday criticised Karnataka Higher Education Minister Basavaraj Rayareddi over his remarks, where he described Islam as "superior to other religions" and also expressed desire to visit Mecca. Congress leaders however brushed aside the criticism and backlash, calling it a matter of personal choice and opinion.

Rajnath Singh to review performance of 16 defence PSUs

IANS | August 31, 2026 1:49 PM

New Delhi, Aug 31 (IANS) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will undertake the annual performance review of 16 defence public sector undertakings (DPSUs) here on Tuesday, underscoring the importance of developing new indigenous technologies and enhancing exports, according to an official statement issued on Monday.

The best way forward for me is to play as much as I can: Hazlewood

IANS | August 31, 2026 1:39 PM

New Delhi, Aug 31 (IANS) Australia fast bowler Josh Hazlewood is targeting a busy run of one-day cricket to maintain his bowling intensity and build towards October’s Test series in South Africa, saying he wants to play as much as possible after making a successful return to Test action against Bangladesh.

GST 2.0 helped economy weather West Asia crisis: Maruti Suzuki India chairman

IANS | August 31, 2026 1:35 PM

New Delhi, Aug 31 (IANS) Maruti Suzuki India chairman RC Bhargava said on Monday that GST 2.0 reforms rolled out by the government have given “a new impetus not only to the automobile industry but to several sectors of the economy,” leading to robust growth despite the adverse impact of the West Asia crisis.