Quran recitation at official Government event in Hubballi, Karnataka

Congress Minister Santosh Lad and senior officials in attendance

Hubballi (Karnataka) – At an official bhoomi pujan (foundation laying) ceremony for various development projects under Ward No. 34 in Vishal Nagar, Quran recitation was performed to inaugurate the event. The event was held under the aegis of the Municipal Corporation, Public Works Department and HESCOM. District Guardian Minister Santosh Lad was present, along with Congress leaders Deepa Nagraj Gauri and Corporator Manglamma Gauri. The programme began with recitation of the Quran by Hafiz, a member of the Muslim community, in the presence of Municipal Commissioner Rudresh Ghali and several Government officials.

🚨 Quran Recitation at Govt Event in Hubballi, Karnataka!

Congress Minister Santosh Lad & officials attended as the Qur'an was recited at a state function.

Is this “Sarva Dharma Sama Bhava” or a step towards Islamization?

“Reciting the Qur'an at a government program is… pic.twitter.com/3YT02BH6N1

— Sanatan Prabhat (@SanatanPrabhat) October 8, 2025

Quran recitation at a Government event is unfortunate – Arvind Bellad, Deputy Leader of Opposition in Assembly

Quran recitation at Congress government program!

Arvind Bellad criticised the Congress Government for prioritising Muslim appeasement to such an extent that it is now allowing Quran recitation at official Government events. “If this had been a private community event, there would be no objection. But allowing Quran recitation at a Government function is inappropriate. The Minister should have acted against the officials responsible, but instead, he encouraged it. This is deeply regrettable,” Bellad said.

The @INCKarnataka government in Karnataka has turned governance into a stage for vote-bank appeasement.

In Hubballi, a government function—the foundation stone laying of civic and public works—began with Quran recitation, openly violating the sanctity and neutrality of state… pic.twitter.com/n2rLZJfdTC

— Arvind Bellad (@BelladArvind) October 7, 2025

Santosh Lad halted his speech when Azaan began

While delivering his address at the event, Minister Santosh Lad paused his speech upon hearing the Azaan (call for Islamic prayer). He resumed only after the Azaan had ended. (It must be said, at least he didn’t leave the stage to join the namaz. – Editor)