If its 1996 manifesto reflected the post-Cold War anxiety, the BJP manifesto for 2004 betrays no such concerns and talks instead of a ‘‘more active, creative and surefooted’’ foreign policy. In 1996, the party, maintaining that relations with US would be based on mutual respect, pointed out ‘‘we find that US policies in this direction lack foresight and India’s political and security-related interests have been ignored’’. In 1998, it tried to put the post-Cold War reality in perspective, noting that there was need to place relations with US based on mutual respect, shared values and congruence of interests. ‘‘We expect the US to be more sensitive to India’s security and economic interests,’’ the 1998 manifesto said. But in 2004, there’s not much doubt in the BJP’s mind. Its vision document says foreign policy has to become far more active, creative and surefooted. ‘‘We have expanded relations with USA, strengthened our strategic partneship with Russia and intensified our dialogue with the EU.’’ On Indo-Pak relations too, the approach has changed. In its 1996 manifesto, the BJP said: ‘‘Pakistan is trying to bring instability and violence within the country. BJP will thwart all such attempts. BJP declares that it (Pakistan) should not interfere in our internal affairs.’’ In 1998, the party pledged that it will take active steps to persuade Pakistan to abandon its ‘‘present policy of hostile interference in our internal affairs by supporting insurgent and terrorist groups.’’ ‘‘The BJP affirms unequivocally India’s sovereignty over the whole of Jammu and Kashmir, including the areas under foreign occupations,’’ the manifesto said. But, in 2004, it records: ‘‘We will continue the dialogue process with Pakistan for a lasting solution to all outstanding issues, including J&K, on the basis of the joint statement issued in Islamabad in Feb 2004.’’ It adds that the BJP will work for the creation of a multipolar world order, with India as one of the poles.
