Chirag Paswan at Express Adda: I can stand up to my govt… I am in the alliance but I am not the BJP
Chirag Paswan at Express Adda: ‘I’m With NDA, Not BJP; I Speak My Mind’
New Delhi, May 1, 2025 — Chirag Paswan, Union Minister and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) leader, made a bold statement at Express Adda. He drew a clear line between his party’s alliance with the NDA and his independence from the BJP. “I am with the NDA, but I am not the BJP,” he said, asserting that he will not hesitate to question the government.
At the event hosted by The Indian Express, Paswan opened up about his political journey, his father’s legacy, and the road ahead in Bihar. His remarks were sharp, confident, and aimed at highlighting his distinct role in the coalition.
A Voice Within the Alliance
Paswan stressed that his alliance with the NDA does not mean silence. “I support the NDA, but that doesn’t mean I will follow blindly,” he explained. He added that his party has its own voice and values, which he plans to uphold.
As Bihar gears up for elections next year, Paswan’s positioning matters. He is a key Dalit face in the NDA and a leader with rising influence in the region. His words are likely to shape conversations both within and outside the alliance.
Ready to Question the Government
“I can stand up to my own government,” he stated firmly. According to Paswan, his loyalty does not mean agreeing with everything. “I will speak up when something goes against the people’s interests,” he added.
He made it clear that constructive criticism is part of good governance. “We’re in politics to serve, not just to stay silent in power,” he said, signaling his intent to hold the government accountable when needed.
Bihar Needs Change
Paswan didn’t hold back while talking about Bihar’s challenges. Without naming specific leaders, he said the state needs fresh leadership. “We cannot accept slow development anymore. Bihar deserves growth, jobs, and a better future,” he emphasized.
He also pointed out the state’s ongoing issues with unemployment and migration. “We need to invest in skill-building and job creation. Young people are leaving because they see no future here,” he said.
Alliance Based on Respect
While asserting his independence, Paswan also expressed respect for the NDA. “I respect Prime Minister Modi. He has supported us. But respect must be mutual,” he noted. He explained that alliance politics should not come at the cost of losing one’s voice.
This stance allows Paswan to maintain balance—staying loyal to the NDA while keeping his party’s identity intact. It’s a strategy that may help him grow support among both loyalists and undecided voters.
Leading with Youth and Legacy
Speaking about his late father, Ram Vilas Paswan, he said, “I inherited his values, but I’m building my own legacy.” As a young leader, Chirag believes he carries extra responsibility. “The youth want jobs, respect, and opportunity. I aim to give them that,” he added.
He noted that he wants to lead with vision, not just inheritance. “My father taught me to stand up for people. That’s what I try to do every day,” he said.
A Strategy for 2025 and Beyond
Chirag Paswan’s remarks offer insight into his broader political strategy. He seeks to be seen as a loyal ally, but also as someone who is not afraid to speak the truth. This dual role could help him attract a wider voter base in Bihar.
Analysts believe this approach could also influence seat-sharing talks and campaign narratives. Smaller parties in coalitions often struggle to stay visible. Paswan seems to be solving that problem by being both assertive and diplomatic.
Conclusion
Chirag Paswan’s appearance at Express Adda was more than just a media event—it was a political statement. By saying “I am in the alliance, but I am not the BJP,” he positioned himself as a leader with both voice and values.
As the political climate heats up ahead of the elections, leaders like Paswan may reshape how regional parties function within national alliances. He seems ready to lead from the front—on his terms.
