Chirag Paswan's Bold Move Ahead of Bihar Assembly Elections
Concerns Among NDA Allies Regarding Chirag Paswan
Are the NDA coalition partners worried about Chirag Paswan? Jitan Ram Manjhi, a central minister and leader of the Hindustani Awam Morcha, has issued a warning that if the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) leader repeats his strategy from the 2020 assembly elections, he will face consequences. Meanwhile, Chirag Paswan has made a significant announcement, revealing his intention to contest in the Bihar assembly elections later this year. For the first time, his party will participate in a pre-election alliance with the ruling Janata Dal (United) or JD(U). Although Paswan's party currently has no representation in the assembly, it won all five seats in the previous general elections.
Chirag Paswan's Political Aspirations
The 42-year-old son of the late Ram Vilas Paswan, the founder of LJP, is determined to carve his own path and occasionally expresses views that may diverge from those of his coalition partner, the BJP. In a recent interview with a media channel in Patna, Paswan stated that if the NDA wins the upcoming Bihar elections, Nitish Kumar will once again take the oath as Chief Minister. He also mentioned that he has no interest in becoming the Deputy Chief Minister.
Speculations Surrounding Nitish Kumar's Future
This is crucial as there has been considerable speculation about whether the NDA will retain Nitish Kumar as Chief Minister if the coalition emerges victorious. Paswan confirmed to the media channel, "I assure you on behalf of the coalition that Nitish Kumar will be the Chief Minister again." He emphasized that the number of seats won by each NDA ally does not matter in this context. Paswan reiterated his desire to contest from a general seat in the assembly elections.
Confidence in NDA's Victory
Paswan expressed his strong belief that the NDA coalition, comprising five parties, is poised for a historic victory, aiming for over 225 seats. He pointed out their recent success in by-elections, highlighting their win in the Belaganj seat, which the NDA had not secured for three decades.
Chirag Paswan's Commitment to Bihar
He also revealed that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar recently inquired whether he was "serious" about contesting the assembly elections. Paswan responded that he indeed wishes to run, emphasizing that his political ambitions are rooted in serving Bihar and its people. He noted that being in Delhi as a Member of Parliament for the third time makes it challenging to fulfill this goal, hence the need to return to his home state.
Addressing Health Rumors
Chirag Paswan dismissed rumors regarding Nitish Kumar's health, stating that concerns have been exaggerated. He remarked, "If it were a serious issue, we would discuss it within the coalition. However, it is not a matter of concern."