His remarks are significant, given that just yesterday Rajnath Singh had buried a discussion on UP, blaming the BJP defeat to polarisation of anti-SP votes. But addressing the national executive today, Advani asked: “Why did the BJP fail to project itself as the most credible and winnable alternative to the incumbent government of the Samajwadi Party?”

Forced to make way for Singh under RSS pressure after his Jinnah remarks, Advani had kept away from organisational matters. But his speech today was a clear indication that he wanted a more active role in the party.

Virtually pinning down Singh, Advani said: “I would like to suggest that the president draw up, in consultation with his senior colleagues, a task sheet detailing corrective actions that need to be taken on an urgent basis, both at the Centre and in states.”

“Our poor performance in the UP Assembly elections is a matter of serious concern. Why were we unable to win support from other sections of society? What were the weaknesses in our party organisation? What mistakes were committed in the management of our campaign?”

To underline his point, he said it was simplistic to blame the organisation. He referred to Punjab where the BJP performed very well and rode to power.

“The costly mistake we have frequently made in recent times is that we do not prepare our election plan well in advance.”

He said a party conclave should be organised to strategise for the 2009 general elections and six panels, each headed by a senior leader, should decide the party approach on economic and social development, education and youth, governance, reform, internal security and foreign policy.