Lalu Prasad Visits Pashupati Kumar Paras, Suggests Possible Coalition in Bihar Politics

Lalu Prasad, the RJD president, hinted at the possibility of former Union minister Pashupati Kumar Paras joining the Mahagathbandhan. This coalition, led by Prasad's party, might include Paras, who has been sidelined by the NDA in favour of his nephew Chirag Paswan. Prasad visited Paras' residence for a Makar Sankranti feast, sparking speculation about political alliances.

Paras expressed his disappointment with the NDA, stating, "I have considered myself an NDA partner all along. But the BJP seems to have abandoned me. The party now always speaks of having five constituents in Bihar. I am never counted." Despite his allegiance to the NDA, Paras feels neglected as the BJP supports Chirag Paswan instead.

Political Dynamics in Bihar

The NDA in Bihar is led by the BJP and includes Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's JDU, Chirag Paswan's Lok Janshakti Party Ram Vilas, Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi's Hindustani Awam Morcha, and Rajya Sabha MP Upendra Kushwaha's Rashtriya Lok Morcha. Paras heads the Rashtriya Lok Janshakti Party after splitting from the original Lok Janshakti Party founded by his late brother Ram Vilas Paswan.

In recent elections, the BJP backed Chirag Paswan over Paras, leading to Paras' resignation from the Union cabinet. The decision left Paras without any seats to contest, including Hajipur, a constituency he represented after Ram Vilas Paswan moved to the Rajya Sabha. Chirag won from this stronghold and secured a cabinet position.

Future Political Moves

Paras has been advised by BJP leaders to reconcile with Chirag Paswan. However, he remains firm on exploring other options due to past grievances with his nephew. "My party is strengthening the organisational structure in all 243 assembly segments of Bihar," said Paras. He plans to decide on future alliances during a Parliamentary board meeting scheduled for April.

Prasad's visit to Paras' home was notable as he rarely makes public appearances due to age and health issues. Accompanied by his elder son Tej Pratap Yadav and RJD national general secretary Abdul Bari Siddiqui, Prasad's presence at the feast added fuel to political speculations.

The potential inclusion of Paras in the Mahagathbandhan could shift political dynamics in Bihar. As both leaders weigh their options, their decisions could significantly impact upcoming electoral strategies and alliances in the state.