In a surprising turn of events, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, while campaigning for the late leader Ram Vilas Paswan, rhetorically asked voters to give one chance to Ram Vilas's son, Chirag Paswan, in the upcoming elections. Kumar quickly changed his course and appealed for votes for Chirag, a second-generation politician, saying that the youth leader will bring fresh ideas and work hard for the people of Bihar. The acrimony between Kumar and Junior Paswan seems to be a thing of the past as Chirag has shown his loyalty to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and has filed his nomination papers with a promise to carry forward his father's legacy.
Nitish Kumar and Chirag Paswan: A Tale of Rivalry and Reconciliation
Nitish Kumar, the Chief Minister of Bihar, and Chirag Paswan, the son of the late Ram Vilas Paswan, have had a tumultuous relationship in recent years. However, a recent twist of events has seen a dramatic shift in their dynamic.
Background of the Rivalry
Nitish Kumar and Ram Vilas Paswan were once allies in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). However, their relationship soured in 2014 when Paswan's Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) quit the NDA over seat-sharing issues. In the 2015 Bihar Assembly elections, the LJP fought against Nitish Kumar's Janata Dal (United) and won two seats.
Change of Heart
In the run-up to the 2020 Bihar Assembly elections, Chirag Paswan, who had taken over the leadership of the LJP after his father's death, continued to attack Nitish Kumar. He even fielded LJP candidates against JD(U) candidates in several constituencies.
However, in a surprising turn of events, Nitish Kumar while campaigning for Paswan, urged voters to give Chirag Paswan one chance. Kumar praised Chirag's leadership qualities and said that he would bring fresh ideas to Bihar.
Loyalty to Modi and Legacy
Chirag Paswan has been a vocal supporter of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP. He has filed his nomination papers with a promise to carry forward his father's legacy of fighting for the rights of the Dalits and Other Backward Classes (OBCs).
FAQs
1. Why did Nitish Kumar change his stance on Chirag Paswan?
Nitish Kumar may have realized that it would be politically beneficial to reconcile with Chirag Paswan and bring the LJP back into the NDA fold. This could strengthen the NDA's position in Bihar and increase the chances of Nitish Kumar retaining his post as Chief Minister.
2. What are Chirag Paswan's chances of winning the 2020 Bihar Assembly elections?
Chirag Paswan's chances of winning depend on several factors, including the performance of the LJP in the elections and the overall political climate in Bihar. He is likely to face a tough challenge from the NDA and the opposition Grand Alliance.
3. What is the significance of Chirag Paswan's support for Narendra Modi?
Chirag Paswan's support for Modi and the BJP is important because it aligns the LJP with the ruling party at the center. This could provide the LJP with access to resources and influence.
4. How has the relationship between Nitish Kumar and Chirag Paswan evolved over time?
The relationship between Nitish Kumar and Chirag Paswan has gone through ups and downs. They were once allies but then became rivals. However, their recent reconciliation suggests that they may be able to work together again in the future.
5. What are the potential implications of this reconciliation for Bihar politics?
The reconciliation between Nitish Kumar and Chirag Paswan could have significant implications for Bihar politics. It could strengthen the NDA's position in the state and increase Nitish Kumar's chances of retaining his post as Chief Minister. However, it could also lead to tensions within the NDA if the LJP demands a greater share of power.
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