Patna: Bihar’s winter session opened with political tumult on Monday after Chirag Paswan, Union minister and chief of the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), claimed that several opposition MLAs from the Mahagathbandhan were in contact with the National Democratic Alliance and were ready to switch sides.
Paswan’s remarks have set off a wave of speculation, coming just days after four of the Congress’s six MLAs skipped a crucial Mahagathbandhan meeting in Patna where Tejashwi Yadav was chosen as the alliance’s leader in the Assembly.
‘Many MLAs Want to Join NDA’
Speaking to reporters, Paswan declined to name any party or legislator but maintained that conversations were ongoing.
“I don’t know who is planning what, but many opposition MLAs are in touch with us. Our NDA is strong with over 200 seats, and several legislators believe they can contribute to Bihar’s development only by joining us,” he said.
Praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Paswan added:
“The opposition has collapsed. I don’t think anyone wants to remain in a sinking boat.”
Congress, RJD Hit Back
Bihar Congress president Rajesh Ram dismissed the claims as recycled allegations.
“These accusations have been made since 2020 and will continue. Let them try. You will see what happens,” he said.
RJD MLA Bhai Virendra retaliated with a jibe of his own:
“Many of their MLAs are in touch with us. They should first see how many legislators they actually have.”
Congress Absences Fuel Speculation
The unrest follows a key Mahagathbandhan meeting held on 29 November, which was attended by only two Congress MLAs. The absence of the other four has revived discussions about internal dissent within the party and its discomfort with the alliance’s recent performance.
