CM ‘anti-god’ statements fail to create ripples in BJP

Malhotra said, ‘‘We do express our displeasure, but it all depends on what basis she is making these comments. However, she has said she is bound by the common minimum programme of the coalition partners.’’ He said the crucial point was whether she was speaking as a BSP leader or as CM.

Katiyar and Tandon, speaking at a joint press conference, first tried to put aside the controversy by arguing that they had not yet ‘‘seen or heard’’ the tapes. When pressed further, Katiyar said, ‘‘We will meet her and discuss the matter. We would want to know the context in which she made the comments. We would respond to the remarks in an appropriate manner.’’ Katiyar, however, saw the tape controversy as an SP plot to drive a wedge between the BSP and BJP.

Tandon sought to take credit for ‘‘having made her talk of Sarvjan, instead of Bahujan’’. However, he said ‘‘whatever somebody says within her party is her business, just as it is ours in our organisation.’’ He added: ‘‘There are leaders who have talked of constructing a public toilet at the disputed site in Ayodhya and this is not the first time somebody has said anything against Hindu deities.’’

Even the normally fire-spewing Katiyar took a moderate stand. ‘‘If anyone tries spitting on the sun, it boomerangs on him or her. Anybody attacking Ram has had to apologise.’’

The SP, meanwhile, is making an effort to put the BJP on the dock over the issue. SP supporters today staged a demonstration outside the BJP office and raised anti-BJP slogans for having remained silent on the issue so far.