BJP's Deputy CM Samrat Chaudhary Wins Big in Tarapur, Leaves RJD's Arun Kumar Behind

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Bihar's Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary, a key figure in the state's National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government, has taken a significant lead in the Tarapur constituency. As of the seventh round of counting, he is ahead by a substantial 6191 votes, leaving RJD's Arun Kumar behind. Chaudhary's victory is a testament to his strong connection with the Tarapur voters, who have historically supported his family in various elections. His father, Shakuni Chaudhary, was a six-time MLA from the constituency, and his mother, Parvati Devi, was also elected to the Bihar Assembly once. Chaudhary's rise to power began in 1999 when he joined the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). He later switched to the Janata Dal (United) in 2014, serving as a minister in Jitan Ram Manjhi's government. In 2017, he joined the BJP, quickly rising through the ranks to become the state unit president. Chaudhary's appointment as Deputy Chief Minister in January 2024 marked a significant milestone in his career. However, Chaudhary has faced controversy over allegations of manipulating his date of birth in election affidavits. The Congress party has accused him of claiming to be 28 years old in 2010, which would make him 44 now, but listing his age as 56 in the 2025 filing. Jan Suraj Party founder Prashant Kishor has also made similar allegations. Chaudhary is also accused in a 1995 murder case alongside his father Shakuni, but he has denied any wrongdoing. The Tarapur constituency has traditionally been a stronghold of the Janata Dal (United), but Chaudhary's family has a strong presence in the area. Despite development issues and discontent among locals, Chaudhary's popularity remains strong. His opponent, RJD's Shah, has raised concerns about poor healthcare, lack of educational opportunities, and farmers' struggles, but it remains to be seen how these issues will impact the final outcome of the election.