BJP MLA Suresh Pasi said he doesn't want "Muslim" votes. He said, "I never visit mosques...haven't visited in past and will neither visit in future...I don't go to seek votes...nor do I attend their joys and sorrows." After remarks, BJP distanced itself from the statement, with party district president Sudhanshu Shukla saying, "What Suresh Pasi said is his personal opinion."