Why Chirag Paswan could stake a claim for Deputy CM post in Bihar’s new government

Two days after Bihar’s mandate became clear, government formation talks have gained pace within the NDA. While JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar will retain the post of Chief Minister, speculation is rife about who all will be inducted into the Cabinet.

The JD(U) and the BJP have decided to call a legislative party meeting on Monday, and Nitish is also expected to submit his resignation to the Governor on Monday. He may also stake a claim to form a new government on the same day. Though not confirmed, sources within the Chief Minister’s Office told reporters that Nitish might be sworn in as  Chief Minister for the 10th time on November 20th.

Though the BJP is the single largest party in the legislative, it is expected that the JD(U) will continue to maintain its foothold in the government once again. According to reports, 11 JDU ministers, along with Nitish Kumar, are expected to take the oath of office.

But what has set tongues wagging is how Lok Janashakti Party (Ram Vilas) chief Chirag  Paswan may claim his due. In line with the BJP tradition of appointing two deputy Chief Ministers in Bihar, Paswan might claim the post for himself. Paswan is said to have raised the demand, albeit in hushed tones. But it will be the BJP that has to make the decision.

Paswan also met Nitish Kumar on Saturday, though he said the meeting was just to congratulate the Chief Minister on his victory.

Chirag, who has always been vocal about his 'Bihar and Bihari First' policy, secured 19 seats for his party, successfully consolidating Dalit votes. This is when the party, which fielded candidates in 135 seats in the 2020 elections after going solo, managed to win just one. That MLA, however, joined JD(U) later.

Now that Chirag, who has earned the tag of NDA’s Hanuman, has proved his might, and will have to be taken seriously by the NDA. Chirag, however, has refused to comment on whether he aspires to be the Deputy CM.

Meanwhile, speculations are that LJP (Ram Vilas) could receive three ministerial positions, while Jitan Ram Manjhi and Upendra Kushwaha's parties could receive one each. Based on the current assembly strength, Bihar could have a total of 36 ministers.

India