Even before the first vote is cast in the Bihar Elections 2025, Chirag Paswan, leader of the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) [LJP(RV)], has emerged as a significant winner. Several factors contribute to this assessment, highlighting Paswan's enhanced political stature and strategic importance in the upcoming elections.

Kingmaker's Role:

Chirag Paswan has strategically positioned himself to play a crucial role in the upcoming elections. In the 2020 elections, the LJP fielded candidates against Nitish Kumar's JD(U), significantly impacting their seat tally. Political strategist Prashant Kishor attributed the JD(U)'s reduced numbers in the 2020 polls to the "Chirag Paswan factor". This time around, Paswan's return to the NDA fold is expected to bolster the alliance's prospects, especially those of the JD(U). His influence is undeniable, making him a vital component of the NDA's strategy.

Strategic Alliance and Negotiation:

Paswan's political acumen was evident during the seat-sharing negotiations within the NDA. He secured a significant number of seats for his party, showcasing his enhanced bargaining power. Despite initial offers of fewer seats, Paswan stood firm, ultimately compelling the BJP and JD(U) to adjust their quotas to accommodate him. This demonstrated his growing influence within the alliance and his ability to extract favorable terms. Paswan himself expressed satisfaction with the seat-sharing arrangement, emphasizing the cordial atmosphere within the NDA.

The "Bihar First, Bihari First" Vision:

Chirag Paswan has been actively promoting his vision of "Bihar First, Bihari First," aiming to project Bihar as a state of opportunity, growth, and self-reliance. This resonates particularly strongly with the youth of Bihar. He envisions a future where education and healthcare are accessible to all, reducing the need for young people to seek opportunities outside the state. By championing this vision, Paswan is attempting to connect with the aspirations of the people and position himself as a leader committed to the state's progress.

NDA's United Front:

Chirag Paswan has emphasized the unity and smooth negotiations within the NDA, contrasting it with the internal conflicts within the Mahagathbandhan. He highlighted the NDA's focus on development and transforming Bihar into an industrial hub, drawing a contrast with the state's past under RJD and Congress rule. By portraying the NDA as a cohesive and development-oriented alliance, Paswan aims to solidify its position and appeal to voters seeking stability and progress.

Challenges and Opportunities:

While Chirag Paswan has undoubtedly strengthened his position, challenges remain. He faces the task of translating his influence into electoral success for his party. With no MLAs in the current assembly, his prospects hinge on post-poll permutations. However, his demonstrated ability to negotiate effectively and his clear vision for Bihar's future position him as a key player in the state's political landscape.

In conclusion, Chirag Paswan's strategic moves, enhanced political standing, and clear vision for Bihar have already made him a winner in the lead-up to the 2025 elections. His ability to influence the NDA's strategy, secure a significant number of seats for his party, and connect with the aspirations of the people have solidified his position as a force to be reckoned with in Bihar politics. While the ultimate outcome of the elections remains to be seen, Paswan has undoubtedly emerged as a key player whose presence will significantly shape the political landscape of Bihar.