Chirag Paswan has delivered a compelling comeback narrative, steering Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) [LJP(RV)] to roughly 29 seats in Bihar’s assembly polls replicating the faction’s February 2005 high amidst the turbulence following his father Ram Vilas Paswan’s passing, which sparked intra-family conflicts and organizational fractures. The 43-year-old leader navigated eviction from the paternal bungalow (planned as a tribute), resistance from relatives, and the Election Commission’s freeze on the original LJP name/symbol, rebranding his group LJP(Ram Vilas) while uncle Pashupati Kumar Paras’ rival outfit dwindled to sub-1% vote share.
Strategic NDA Partnership: 29 Seats and Rally Dominance
BJP’s allocation of 29 seats to LJP(RV) initially questioned proved prescient, with Chirag lauded for astute bargaining. He spearheaded 173 public events, emerging in NDA’s elite campaigner quintet with PM Narendra Modi, HM Amit Shah, UP CM Yogi Adityanath, and JD(U) head Nitish Kumar, mobilizing diverse crowds. Loyal to Modi as his ‘Hanuman’ yet vocal on key issues like minority welfare, Chirag crafted a progressive, state-centric persona, securing a Union Cabinet role after 2024’s national victory.
‘Bihar First’ Roadmap: Leaving Mumbai for State Revival
Ditching a comfortable Mumbai career “A few more Bollywood years could’ve built a solid reputation” Chirag entered politics pained by Biharis’ nationwide stigma, where the term became derogatory. “As a thrice-elected MP in Delhi, impact was limited; state immersion is essential,” he shared with The Indian Express, rolling out a “Bihar First” blueprint targeting employment generation, fiscal growth, healthcare enhancement, educational reforms, and overall progress. His ‘MY’ emphasis Mahila and Yuva counters RJD’s Muslim-Yadav alignment, appealing to ambitious voters while Tejashwi Yadav (36) stresses joblessness, seeking to eclipse Lalu-era chaos tied to equity efforts.
Navigating 2020 Ouster and Kin Rivalries
BJP’s early preference for uncle Paras (Union minister) and JD(U)-driven 2020 NDA omission speculated as BJP’s subtle JD(U) weakening ploy saw Chirag go solo, eroding votes but fortifying base. His faction’s resurgence highlights Dalit unity and generational pull.
Path Ahead: CM Aspirations and Broad Appeal
Party insiders view Chirag as a “vibrant personality bridging castes,” inspiring Bihar’s upwardly mobile. Candid about chief ministerial goals “Politics solely for Bihar and its people” he strengthens NDA’s framework, merging heritage with innovation. Bihar’s quest for fresh leadership spotlights Chirag’s ascent, redefining youth dynamics against RJD.
