Chirag Paswan, Union Minister and leader of the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), has stirred political buzz in Bihar with his renewed emphasis on a “Bihar first, Bihari first” vision — a message that’s now raising eyebrows within the NDA just ahead of the Assembly elections.
The 42-year-old MP and key NDA ally recently told a news channel, “My focus is Bihar first, Bihari first. My state is calling me.” The remark is being interpreted by BJP and JD(U) leaders as a strategic move to strengthen his party’s negotiating position in seat-sharing talks. Sources suggest Chirag’s party, LJP (Ram Vilas), is eyeing as many as 40 seats in the upcoming state polls.
At an Express Adda event on April 8, Chirag further underlined his regional priorities, proudly promoting his “MY formula” — focusing on Mahila (women) and Yuva (youth). He noted, “Out of my five MPs, two are women,” and praised the success of Biharis in various fields like media, business, and government services once they move beyond caste identities and the state’s borders.
Responding to a question, Chirag drew a clear distinction between himself and his late father, Ram Vilas Paswan — a national political figure and respected Dalit leader. “My father was invested in national politics. But I want to build my identity in Bihar,” he said, though he did not commit to a timeline for formally contesting in state politics.