The strength of Chirag Paswan (Lok Janshakti Party-Ram Vilas) within the NDA alliance has increased. His success in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and securing the highest number of seats among the junior allies have marked him as a potential game-changer in the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections.
Paswan is a Powerful Force in the NDA Camp
Chirag Paswan, a well-known figure in Bihar politics, has emerged as a powerful force in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). As preparations are underway for the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections, Paswan's leadership and political strategy have created a new buzz not just within the NDA camp but also in state politics.
1. Major Share in the Alliance: Increased Influence
During the seat-sharing negotiations for the 243 seats in the Bihar Assembly, Chirag Paswan's negotiating skills were clearly visible. In the seat-sharing agreement, the LJP(RV) party secured 29 seats. This is more than any other junior ally in the coalition.
* While the BJP and JD(U) settled for 101 seats each, Chirag Paswan's party secured 29 seats.
* This indicates that the major partners, the BJP and JD(U), were compelled to agree to Chirag Paswan's demands and acknowledge his strength.
2. 100% Victory in Lok Sabha (2024)
In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the LJP(RV) party, led by Chirag Paswan, delivered a strong performance. They achieved a 100% success rate, winning all five seats they contested in Bihar. This electoral victory helped his party secure about a 6% vote share across the state. This performance confirms his ability to consolidate votes beyond the traditional Paswan-Dalit voter base.
3. 'Bihar First' Slogan and Youth Support
To move away from traditional caste politics, Chirag Paswan has emphasized a development-based campaign with the slogan "Bihar First, Bihari First." His strategy focuses on development, youth employment, and governance reforms. This has resonated well with first-time voters and women, suggesting he is moving towards gaining widespread popular support beyond caste-based politics.
Potential to Become a Kingmaker
As is well known, with Nitish Kumar attempting to secure the Chief Minister post for the 10th time, the 29 seats allocated to the LJP(RV) could play a crucial role in post-election coalition formation and government structure. According to internal surveys, Chirag Paswan has emerged as the second-best choice for the Chief Minister position among NDA supporters.
Due to his political acumen, successful Lok Sabha performance, and increased influence within the NDA, Chirag Paswan enters the 2025 Bihar elections as the biggest gainer within the NDA alliance. It would not be surprising if Chirag Paswan and his party spring a major surprise in Bihar politics on the day of the election results.