Chirag Paswan's LJP(RV) Makes U-Turn in Bihar, Seals NDA Alliance with BJP and JD(U)

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In a dramatic turn of events, Chirag Paswan's Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) or LJP(RV) is poised for a significant comeback in Bihar as part of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) with the BJP and JD(U). After opting out of the NDA in the 2020 elections, securing no seats, and blaming Nitish Kumar for his party's poor performance, Chirag Paswan's party has secured 30 seats to contest under the NDA banner. As of 12 pm on November 14, LJP(RV) is leading on 23 seats, contributing to the NDA's overall lead of over 190 seats in the 243-seat Bihar Assembly. Chirag Paswan, 43, has consistently expressed his admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP, citing his disagreement with Nitish Kumar as the reason for his party's poor performance in 2020. The JD(U)'s weak performance was partly attributed to Chirag's party's vote share. The LJP's recent history has been marked by a split between Chirag and his uncle Pashupati Nath Paras, who led the original LJP. Chirag's return to the BJP-led NDA fold in time for the 2024 Lok Sabha election saw him win a Lok Sabha seat and become a minister in Modi's third term as Prime Minister. When asked about his future plans, including a possible foray into state politics, Chirag hinted that he might consider it by 2030, following in his father's footsteps, who remained largely focused on national politics. However, Chirag has not made a definitive decision. The current numbers indicate Nitish Kumar's dominant position in Bihar politics, but Chirag Paswan may see this as an opportunity to establish himself as a future leader in the state.