BJP has never regarded its critics as enemies or anti-nationals: LK Advani

BJP veteran L.K Advani on Thursday said the essence of Indian democracy is respect for diversity and freedom of expression. 

He said, right from its inception, the BJP has never regarded those who disagree with it politically as its enemies, but considers them only as adversaries. 

In a blog ahead of the BJP's foundation day on Saturday, Mr. Advani said, in BJP's conception of Indian nationalism, it has never regarded those who disagree with it politically as



anti-national. 

He said the party has been committed to freedom of choice of every citizen at personal as well as political level. 

Reacting to Mr. Advani's blog, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said the  BJP veteran has perfectly summed up the true essence of BJP, most notably the guiding mantra of nation first, party next and self-last. In a tweet, Mr. Modi said, he is proud to be a BJP worker and proud that greats like Mr. Advani have strengthened it.