Chirag Paswan’s Bold Warning: 'Will Kick Away Ministerial Post in a Minute!' – Modi’s 'Hanuman' Flexes His Political Muscles Ahead of Bihar Elections

Chirag Paswan, often referring to himself as "Modi's Hanuman," has recently been making headlines for taking a firm and often opposing stand against the NDA on various key issues. His latest statement, declaring he would kick away a ministerial position in a minute if he felt that the constitution and reservation were being tampered with, has raised eyebrows across the political spectrum.

Speaking at a Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes event at Patna's SK Memorial Hall, Paswan stated, "Regardless of the alliance I am in or the ministerial position I hold, the day I feel the constitution or reservation is being undermined, I will walk away from my position in a minute, just like my father did."

This statement has fueled speculation about his growing dissatisfaction within the NDA and his political ambitions in Bihar.

Chirag Paswan’s Divergence from the NDA

Paswan has taken opposing stances on various issues since the formation of the Modi government 3.0. His recent praise for Rahul Gandhi, calling him a visionary leader, raised many eyebrows, especially given his alliance with the NDA. Paswan's divergence was also evident in the following instances:

1. Quota within Quota: In August 2024, Paswan opposed the Supreme Court’s decision on the “quota within quota” system. While leaders like Jitan Ram Manjhi from the NDA supported the ruling, Paswan's party stood firmly against it.

2. Lateral Entry: Paswan also publicly opposed the government's plan to fill 45 key positions in central ministries through lateral entry, which prompted the government to withdraw the advertisement after pushback.

3. Support for Bharat Bandh: Paswan backed the opposition’s call for a Bharat Bandh on August 21 to protest the “quota within quota” system, stating that SC-ST reservations are based on social discrimination, not economic inequality.

4. Demand for Caste Census: At a party convention in Ranchi, Paswan supported the demand for a caste census, arguing that governments need accurate population data to create effective policies.

5. Waqf Bill: His party also raised concerns about the Waqf Bill, saying it left the Muslim community uncertain and called for amendments to clarify provisions.

Paswan’s Recent Remarks and Political Ambitions

Paswan's recent statement threatening to resign from a ministerial position has been seen by many as a reflection of his unease within the NDA, especially in the lead-up to the Bihar elections. Senior journalist Om Prakash Ashk suggests that Paswan is growing increasingly frustrated within the alliance, citing two key reasons: Paswan’s desire to carve out a separate identity from the NDA and his lack of significant gains in Bihar politics despite being in alliance.

Paswan’s comments also align with speculation about his political ambitions in Bihar. He has been positioning himself as a strong contender in the race for Bihar’s chief ministership, alongside names like Tejashwi Yadav of the RJD. With JDU lacking a clear successor to Nitish Kumar, Paswan seems poised to seize the opportunity, using his Dalit and Muslim vote base to build a new political calculus in the state.

Is Chirag Paswan Unhappy with the NDA?

Paswan’s unhappiness with the NDA can be traced to several key incidents, starting with the upcoming Jharkhand elections. Despite preparing for these elections, Paswan’s Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) was excluded from the NDA’s electoral plans, with the BJP instead aligning with JDU and AJSU. This exclusion is seen as a significant blow to Paswan, who had campaigned for NDA’s victory in Jharkhand.

Additionally, the resurgence of his uncle, Pashupati Paras, within the NDA has added to Paswan’s frustration. Paras’s increased presence in the BJP has led to speculations about the BJP favoring him over Paswan, fueling further resentment. In a recent speech, Paswan took a veiled jab at Paras, accusing him of trying to undermine his leadership.

The Bihar Elections and Paswan’s Strategy

Paswan’s dissatisfaction with the NDA also stems from the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections. After Paras’s meeting with top BJP leaders, there were hints that the NDA might cut Paswan’s party’s share of seats, which has intensified Paswan’s discontent. He previously demonstrated his political muscle in 2020 by fielding candidates against JDU, leading to JDU’s defeat in several constituencies.

Paswan’s strategy seems to be keeping all options open, especially with the potential of a hung assembly in Bihar. If such a scenario unfolds, Paswan could emerge as a kingmaker, or even aspire to the top post in Bihar politics. This strategy aligns with his long-standing slogan of "Bihar First, Bihari First," focusing on expanding his influence in Bihar.

In conclusion, Chirag Paswan’s recent divergence from the NDA and his bold statements seem to signal a shift in his political strategy. As he continues to seek opportunities in both Bihar and other states, his next moves could reshape the political landscape in the region, especially if he plays the role of a kingmaker in the future.