The Election Commission has a huge responsibility as an agency which conducts the polls and which acts as a regulator during the elections. Over the years the Election Commission of India has achieved high standards of credibility. It conducts the elections in an efficient manner.

Election times are opportunities for raising issues of governance. However, there are many who see virtues in polarization. Regrettably, we in the BJP are accused of benefitting from polarization even if polarization is encouraged by political opponents.

There are some clear 'dont's' for mature politics and statecraft. Arrogance is to be avoided. Humility is always a preferred option. Vadra's statement on Smriti Irani denying her existence by asking a question "who" displays arrogance at its worst? 

Let all roads lead to Amethi. As campaigning for the last two phases for the 2014 elections reaches a climax all roads now must lead to Amethi.

Five years as Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha has been a great learning experience for me. Being in Opposition is an experience by itself. You have to be vigilant and well informed. A lot of informants come to you with information.

There is a streak of misguided aggression which most of us had in our younger years. Even when you lost a cricket match or an argument you would come back home with a satisfaction of having given a mouthful to the other side. As one matures you realize the virtues of understatement, wit and sarcasm. These are always a preferred option to being downright discourteous.