Amidst ongoing discussions regarding seat-sharing within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) for the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) [LJP(RV)] leader Chirag Paswan has asserted his commitment to the coalition. Addressing party leaders, Paswan clarified that he is not engaging in "hard bargaining" but is focused on ensuring a respectable agreement that aligns with the party's goals and principles.

Paswan's statement comes in the wake of reports suggesting that the LJP(RV) was demanding a significant share of seats, potentially leading to friction within the NDA. Sources indicated the party was initially asking for 40-45 seats but might be willing to accept around 25-26. Some reports even suggested a possible alliance with Prashant Kishor's Jan Suraaj if their demands were not met.

However, Paswan has downplayed these reports, emphasizing his dedication to the NDA alliance. He affirmed that discussions are progressing positively, with the aim of thoroughly deliberating on every detail, including seats, candidates, and campaign strategies. "I have no worries about getting proper respect in the alliance when PM Narendra Modi is there," Paswan stated.

The LJP(RV) has authorized Chirag Paswan to take the final call on seat-sharing decisions. Shambhavi Chaudhary, an LJP(RV) MP, confirmed a central parliamentary board meeting chaired by Paswan, stating that the party chief will make the final decisions regarding seat allocation. This move underscores the party's confidence in Paswan's leadership and his ability to navigate the complex negotiations.

Meanwhile, other NDA constituents have also weighed in on the seat-sharing discussions. Upendra Kushwaha, chief of Rashtriya Lok Morcha, clarified that media reports of a consensus on seat-sharing within the NDA were incorrect and that discussions were still ongoing. He was called to Delhi by the BJP leadership to resume talks.

বিহার BJP president Dilip Jaiswal said the NDA may announce seat-sharing arrangements among its allies for the assembly elections soon, as discussions were complete and a consensus had been reached. A formal announcement was expected to be made either in Patna or Delhi.

The Bihar Assembly elections are anticipated to be a two-phased contest, with the NDA, led by the BJP and Janata Dal (United) [JD(U)], facing off against the INDIA bloc, led by Tejashwi Yadav of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). The NDA has reportedly finalized its seat-sharing arrangement, with the JD(U) contesting 101 seats, the BJP 100, and Chirag Paswan's party 26.

Paswan's "Bihar First, Bihari First" agenda remains a key focus for the LJP(RV). He has been campaigning aggressively on this plank, seeking to consolidate his support base and emerge as a significant force in Bihar politics. This election is crucial for Paswan to demonstrate his ability to translate national-level influence and Dalit support into a substantial assembly presence.