ELECTIONS '98 COMMENTARY
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We knew we were facing defeat, says Shekhawat

Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhairon Singh Shekhawat has said that he knew before the election that ''we were facing defeat''.

In an interview to a television channel, he said the Congress has faced this situation several times. ''This time it was our turn. Prices became a major factor that went against us. We had a very good record in terms of development work, but caste factors, and rising prices, went completely against us."

Asked why the ''vikas" slogan had been rejected by the people, he said, ''No one rejected it. The voters agree that we have done much for development. However, the problem was that prices proved to be a bigger negative factor; it offset the positive impact of our development work.

''I admit that the defeat means that the people have been completely dissatisfied with my government, and I have owned moral responsibility for the defeat."

Asked what his future plans were following the Bharatiya Janata Party's rout in the state, he said, ''As for my own future, I will continue to do my best, whether I am in the government or in the opposition. I intend to remain active. I accept the verdict of the people, and will continue to work for the people as I have always done.''

Assembly Election '98

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