Chirag Paswan Confirms NDA Consensus on Bihar Chief Minister, Advocates for BJP Leader
In a significant development amid ongoing suspense over the next Bihar chief minister, Union minister and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) president Chirag Paswan stated on Monday that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) partners in Bihar have nearly reached a consensus on the issue. He indicated that a formal announcement is imminent, putting an end to weeks of intense speculation.
Paswan Rules Himself Out, Insists on BJP Chief Minister
Speaking to reporters at Patna airport, Chirag Paswan clarified that he is not in the race for the chief ministerial position. He strongly advocated for the next chief minister to be from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), emphasizing the alliance's preference. "As of today, we definitely want a Chief Minister from the BJP within the alliance," Paswan asserted, adding, "I was neither in the race nor am."
He elaborated that discussions among all five NDA allies have largely settled key details, including the identity of the chief minister, the party affiliation, and the deputy chief minister. "Almost everything has been finalised, and a formal announcement to this effect will be made very soon," Paswan confirmed, highlighting the collaborative decision-making process.
Political Context and Speculation
The BJP emerged as the single-largest party in the 243-member Bihar Assembly, securing 89 seats after contesting 101. In comparison, the Janata Dal (United) won 85 seats from the same number of contested seats. This electoral outcome has fueled widespread speculation about the chief ministerial candidate, especially following Nitish Kumar's recent nomination to the Rajya Sabha.
Despite Kumar's nomination, he has continued his Samriddhi Yatra, embarking on its fifth phase without publicly addressing his Upper House berth. His gestures, such as placing hands on the shoulders of leaders during the yatra, have further intensified rumors about his potential role and the succession plan in Bihar.
Paswan Praises Nitish Kumar and Hints at Future Models
Chirag Paswan acknowledged the extensive experience of outgoing Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, suggesting that the new government would benefit significantly from his insights. Additionally, he referenced Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary's model in Patna, noting Choudhary's responsibilities as home minister. "In what role his model will be seen in future, only time will say," Paswan remarked, leaving room for interpretation about potential administrative frameworks.
Later in Hajipur, his political constituency, Paswan reiterated his stance while meeting a bereaved family, underscoring his commitment to the alliance's unity and the BJP's leadership in the chief ministerial selection.
Conclusion
With Chirag Paswan's statements, the NDA appears poised to resolve the chief ministerial question in Bihar promptly. The emphasis on a BJP candidate and the near-finalization of details signal a strategic move to ensure stability and continuity in the state's governance, leveraging the strengths of all alliance partners.
