Patna: Union Minister Chirag Paswan met Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar in Patna on Monday, in a closed-door meeting that has intensified discussions around seat-sharing dynamics within the NDA alliance ahead of Bihar’s forthcoming elections.
Paswan, who heads the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas), was accompanied by his brother-in-law and Jamui MP Arun Bharti. Bihar minister and senior JD(U) leader Vijay Chaudhary was also present. While the official line emphasised development-related discussions, political observers believe the talks delved into electoral strategy and future power-sharing arrangements within the ruling coalition.
Despite being part of the NDA, Paswan’s party currently holds no seats in the Bihar Assembly. However, he is reportedly seeking a significant share—over 40 seats—in the upcoming polls, a demand that could test internal negotiations among allies.
A photograph from the meeting showing Paswan offering a bouquet to a smiling Nitish Kumar has added to the speculation, especially as posters across Patna have recently called for Paswan’s elevation to chief minister. While Paswan has publicly distanced himself from such ambitions, the imagery has been interpreted as part of a broader campaign to bolster his political clout within the alliance.
With the NDA seeking to consolidate its position in Bihar, Monday’s meeting signals an active phase of behind-the-scenes coordination as allies position themselves for a competitive electoral season.
