The Bihar Assembly elections have emerged as a wave election, benefiting all partners in the National Democratic Alliance. Among them, Chirag Paswan and his Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) have delivered a standout performance. Leading on nearly 19 out of 29 seats contested, Chirag has proven critics wrong who dismissed him as a social media creation inflated by his father's legacy. Just weeks earlier, insiders questioned whether the BJP had gambled by allotting him 29 seats, more than his organisational strength seemed to justify. The results now validate that decision. Chirag has transitioned from being an untested heir to Ram Vilas Paswan's legacy into an electoral asset with independent vote-pulling capacity. His party's return to the NDA after contesting alone in 2020 added a crucial 5–6 per cent vote share, visibly aiding the Janata Dal (United), which is leading on over 80 seats compared to 43 in 2020.
Proving Electoral Strength Beyond Legacy
Many of the seats allocated to the LJP (RV) were ones where the NDA had historically underperformed. Chirag's candidates succeeded across such constituencies, signalling the emergence of a new political force in Bihar. His 100 per cent strike rate in the Lok Sabha polls, where he won all five contested seats, is partly attributed to the loyal support of the Dusadh community. However, Chirag's ability to read political currents and adapt—much like his father, whom Lalu Prasad once called a weatherman—has been equally important. The 2025 results reposition Chirag as a youth leader with demonstrated electoral appeal, especially among Dalits and first-time voters, marking his full integration into the NDA.
Future Bargaining Power and Alliance Dynamics
The strong performance dramatically enhances Chirag's influence within the NDA. He is now positioned to demand prominent Cabinet portfolios and could emerge as a contender for Deputy Chief Minister if the BJP opts for inter-generational balancing. His success gives the BJP a reliable future ally commanding significant Dalit and youth votes. However, historically strained relations between the JD(U) and LJP (RV) mean a stronger Chirag could create internal friction. With Nitish Kumar ageing and the JD(U) lacking strong second-tier leadership, the BJP is recalibrating its long-term succession strategy. Chirag's next challenge will be expanding his appeal beyond the Dusadhs and a segment of Extremely Backward Classes.
Source: Link