Karnataka's senior BJP leader KS Eshwarappa has made controversial remarks on his party's equations with the Muslims. Addressing a meeting attended by minorities in Koppal, the former deputy chief minister of Karnataka stated on Tuesday that BJP doesn't field Muslim candidates in the state because Muslims don't believe in the saffron party.

"Congress party uses Muslims only as a vote bank. It doesn't give you tickets. We don't give Muslims tickets because you don't believe in us. Believe us and we will give you tickets and other things," Eshwarappa has been quoted as saying.

It has to be seen what impact his comments will have on the voting behaviour of Muslims in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. As is known, the State will vote on April 18 and 23, in 14 seats each.