NDA Seat-Sharing Talks Hit Snag as Chirag Paswan Calls Emergency Party Meet in Patna

With Bihar’s 2025 Assembly elections looming, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) finds itself entangled in a fresh round of seat-sharing turbulence. Union Minister and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) chief Chirag Paswan has called an emergency meeting of his party leaders in Patna, signaling growing dissatisfaction over the BJP’s proposed seat allocation. The meeting, scheduled for Thursday morning at the party’s state headquarters, is expected to shape LJP(R)’s next strategic move within the NDA framework.

Seat-Sharing Dispute Intensifies Ahead of Nominations

The NDA’s internal negotiations have hit a critical juncture just days before nominations begin for the first phase of polling on October 10. Chirag Paswan has reportedly demanded at least 40 seats out of Bihar’s 243 Assembly constituencies, citing his party’s performance in the Lok Sabha elections and its grassroots reach. The BJP, however, is inclined to offer only 24–25 seats, triggering a standoff that could impact alliance cohesion.

Paswan’s demand includes two Assembly seats in each of the five Lok Sabha constituencies won by LJP(R), along with specific seats like Govindganj and Brahmapur for his trusted aides—Raju Tiwary and Hulas Pandey respectively. These seats are currently held by BJP and were previously contested by LJP(R) candidates who finished second and third in 2020.

Key NDA Seat Demands and Offers (2025)

Chirag Paswan’s Strategic Moves and Messaging

Paswan’s decision to convene a party meeting in Patna is seen as a tactical step to consolidate internal support and weigh options. The meeting will be chaired by Jamui MP Arun Bharti, the newly appointed election in-charge, and co-chaired by state president Raju Tiwary. All MPs, district office-bearers, and cell heads have been instructed to attend.

Paswan’s recent tweet on his father Ram Vilas Paswan’s death anniversary—“If you want to fight oppression, learn to die”—has been interpreted as a signal of his resolve to stand firm in negotiations. Political observers believe that LJP(R) may consider contesting independently if its demands are not met, a move that could fragment NDA’s vote base.

Timeline of NDA Seat-Sharing Talks and Key Events

JD(U)’s Parallel Preparations and Tensions

Adding to the friction, JD(U) has reportedly begun finalizing its candidate nominations even before a formal seat-sharing announcement. This move has irked LJP(R), which views it as premature and dismissive of alliance consensus. JD(U) leader Sanjay Kumar Jha has maintained that “everything is fine in NDA,” but insiders suggest otherwise.

HAM-S and RLM’s Aspirations

Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi of HAM-S has demanded 15 seats, while BJP has offered 10. Upendra Kushwaha’s Rashtriya Lok Morcha is eyeing 10 seats but may settle for 7. These smaller allies are pushing for greater representation, citing their regional influence and aspirations to evolve into state-level parties.

Electoral Stakes and Strategic Calculations

The 2025 Bihar Assembly elections are scheduled in two phases—November 6 and 11—with counting on November 14. With over 7.24 crore registered voters, the stakes are high. NDA’s internal cohesion will be critical in countering the INDIA bloc led by Tejashwi Yadav’s RJD, which is expected to contest 135–140 seats.

Bihar Assembly Election 2025: Voter and Seat Overview

Possible Outcomes and Political Scenarios

• If LJP(R) exits NDA: BJP-JD(U) may face vote splits in key constituencies.
• If demands are met: NDA retains cohesion but may need to adjust internal seat equations.
• If compromise is reached: LJP(R) contests 25–30 seats with strategic placements.

Disclaimer: This news content is based on political developments, party statements, and media briefings as of October 9, 2025. It is intended for editorial use and public awareness. The information does not endorse any political party or viewpoint and adheres to ethical journalism standards.