Paswan’s rising ambitions and Kushwaha’s demands hint at deeper coalition power shifts

Patna

As the political climate heats up in Bihar, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is closely watching its National Democratic Alliance (NDA) allies, who are signaling a tougher stance on seat-sharing negotiations ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections.

Chirag Paswan, Union Minister and leader of the Lok Janshakti Party-Ram Vilas (LJP-RV), has indicated a willingness to contest the Assembly polls — a move aimed at asserting a larger role in any future government formation. His growing ambition within Bihar’s political landscape has been further bolstered by comments from his brother-in-law and Lok Sabha MP Arun Bharti. Bharti recently suggested that Paswan should contest from a General Category seat rather than one reserved for Scheduled Castes, emphasizing his broader appeal across caste lines.

Meanwhile, Upendra Kushwaha of the Rashtriya Lok Morcha (RLM), another NDA ally, is also expected to drive a hard bargain. Their assertive posturing is seen by BJP strategists as a precursor to tough negotiations in the days ahead.

With allies growing more vocal and assertive, the BJP is preparing its electoral strategy carefully to manage internal coalition dynamics and maintain its stronghold in the state. Political observers believe that these developments could reshape alliance dynamics in Bihar. The BJP, while dominant, must balance partner aspirations to avoid internal friction. As regional leaders push for greater influence, the coming weeks are likely to witness intense backroom negotiations that could redefine the NDA’s electoral roadmap in the state.