The number 13 finally proved to be unlucky for Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee as also the BJP, which once boasted that it always favoured the number.
Number 13, condemned as inauspicious in the West, was considered 'feel good' for the ruling party as also Vajpayee.
The first time BJP came to power in 1996 at the Centre, it lasted for 13 days.
The next time it assumed reins in New Delhi in 1998, the BJP-led coalition's tenure lasted 13 months.
It again came to power in 1999 emerging triumphant in 13th Lok Sabha, with Vajpayee assuming office on October 13 causing the BJP leaders to be carried away by the 'magic' of 13. They started boasting that now their rule would last for a minimum period of 13 years.
When the Election Commission, while announcing the poll schedule, said that counting would be held on May 13, there was a perceptible glee in the saffron camp.
The second time India conducted nuclear tests in Pokharan, a matter of pride for the BJP, were conducted on May 11 and May 13, 1998.
This May 13, however, the explosion was of a different kind.
© 2024 Rediff.com -