One of the changes in the BJP's policy in recent days has been the party's flirtation with minorities. A sustained effort is being carried out by the party to negate the perception that BJP is anti-Muslim ... The party's top leadership believes that if the BJP succeeds in winning over the Muslim votes, it will be in position to form the next government. But recent trends show that the Muslims cannot be easily convinced any more by any party or individual ..

Indian Muslims do not clamour for any special or privileged position. They do not wish to be pampered. All they expect is that they should be treated as equal and honourable citizens of this country and their legitimate rights, enshrined in the Constitution, are safeguarded. If the BJP is really interested in Muslim votes, it should come out with a concrete formula for the welfare and betterment of the community.    (Source: The Hindustan Times, 19 January, 1998)