Arun Jaitley cites Poll Arithmetic to justify loss in Bihar

After having a brain storming session of BJP’s Parliamentary Board in New Delhi, which discussed the Bihar poll results, Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley cited poll arithmetic for the party’s debacle and drew comparison between 2014 Lok Sabha and 2015 Assembly polls.

Excerpts from his PC:

* Grand Alliance, which fought Lok Sabha polls separately in 2014, had received 45% in total. NDA had received 38.8%. But, this time, they fought together and won the polls. This time, they got 41.5% votes, while we received just 34.5%. Grand Alliance consolidated the votes.

* We miscalculated advantage to JD(U)+. Did not expect such surge for them.

* Our assessment that grand alliance constituents will not be able to transfer their votes to each other was incorrect

* reject suggestions that RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat’s comments on reservation, was a key factor. Our stand and position remain clear always.

* Centre is committed to special package for Bihar. We hope the new government will deliver. We will play the role of constructive opposition.

* Media always searching for sensational news items and going to controversial people, who love camera.