New Delhi, Jan 7 (IANS): Union Minority Affairs Minister Najma Heptullah Wednesday said the central government wants a "tranquil" atmosphere in the country and will protect the minorities.

During an interaction with women journalists at the Indian Women Press Corps here, Heptullah also said comments by "individuals are immaterial".

"In a country of 1.2 billion, many people say things just to come in the limelight. The government's aim is to create a tranquil atmosphere," she said.

She was replying to a question about growing concern among the minority communities following communal statements by the Bharatiya Janata Party leaders and conversion programmes being reported.

"Minorities need not be concerned, the government will protect them," she said.

Asked about the proposed anti-conversion bill being talked about, she said: "There are already so many laws... if there is a consensus on any law, it's up to the lawmakers to decide. I will abide by my party's decision."