Generalisations on the political behaviour of Muslims in India abound though little empirical evidence is offered in support. Two common perceptions are that more of the Muslims vote than any other community, and that they strategically vote en bloc to be able to influence electoral processes and outcomes directly. However, the figures show that nothing is so simple. The Muslim vote in each state is influenced by a complex set of factors that are highly contextual and has to be analysed against this background.