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Key Points

Chirag Paswan's criticism of Nitish Kumar's handling of law and order has rattled the NDA alliance in Bihar. Jitan Ram Manjhi dismissed Chirag as politically immature, while JD-U issued veiled warnings. The BJP, however, stayed silent on the brewing conflict. The remarks come ahead of crucial state elections, reviving past tensions within the coalition.

Key Points: Chirag Paswan Criticizes Nitish Kumar Over Bihar Crime Wave

  • Chirag Paswan regrets backing Nitish Kumar govt over crime surge
  • Jitan Ram Manjhi calls Chirag politically inexperienced
  • JD-U warns against crossing alliance boundaries
  • BJP maintains silence amid escalating tensions
3 min read

Bihar: Chirag Paswan's remarks on law and order create unease in NDA camp

LJP leader Chirag Paswan sparks NDA rift by slamming Nitish Kumar's governance amid rising crime, drawing sharp reactions from allies.

"I feel sad that I am supporting such a government in Bihar which is failing to curb crime. – Chirag Paswan"

Patna, July 26

LJP (Ram Vilas) chief and Union Minister Chirag Paswan has stirred a political storm within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) camp in Bihar by openly expressing regret over supporting the Nitish Kumar-led government, citing its failure to control rising crime.

His remarks have triggered sharp reactions from alliance partners, while the BJP has chosen to remain silent.

Hindustani Awam Morcha (HAM) leader and Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi responded swiftly, branding Chirag Paswan as "politically immature".

“Chirag’s politics is still in its infancy. His father, Ram Vilas Paswan, had a towering political stature. Chirag lacks experience and is speaking without full knowledge,” Manjhi said.

He further countered Chirag Paswan’s claims on law and order, asserting that the current situation is far better than pre-2005 Bihar.

“At that time, criminals could walk into the CM’s residence with impunity. Negotiations over kidnapping were taking place from the CM residence before 2005. Today, there is accountability. No one can enter 1 Anne Marg, the residence of the Chief Minister now,” Manjhi added.

Recalling the 2020 Assembly elections, Jitan Ram Manjhi reminded that Chirag Paswan had then tried to damage the NDA from within.

“If he has grievances, he should raise them in NDA meetings, not in front of the media,” Manjhi said.

Earlier in the day, Chirag Paswan, while speaking to the media in Patna, said: “I feel sad that I am supporting such a government in Bihar which is failing to curb crime.”

This direct criticism of the state administration, especially Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, has led to deep unease within the ruling coalition, just months ahead of the crucial Assembly elections.

Janata Dal-United (JD-U), the party leading the state government, has expressed serious displeasure over Chirag’s statements, though indirectly.

JD-U's chief spokesperson and MLC Neeraj Kumar said: “If someone’s soul is suffering and restless, they are free to go wherever they find peace. But crossing the line will not be tolerated.”

He criticised Chirag Paswan for questioning the Bihar Police while still availing of its protection.

“You take security from the Bihar Police and then raise questions on its credibility? That won’t work,” he said, adding: “Is Chirag speaking the language of Tejashwi Yadav now? Is he challenging the Home Ministry and the NCRB?”

Interestingly, the BJP, the largest NDA partner in Bihar, has not commented on the controversy so far.

This isn’t the first time Chirag Paswan has taken aim at Nitish Kumar.

His 2020 strategy of “Bihar First, Bihari First” and running candidates against JD-U had strained ties with the alliance, though he later rejoined the NDA.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As an outsider living in Patna for work, I must say the law and order situation has improved compared to what locals tell me about the pre-2005 era. But yes, recent incidents are worrying. Maybe Chirag is trying to position himself before elections?
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Ananya R
Typical political drama before elections! All these leaders suddenly remember public issues. Where was Chirag ji for last 4 years? And Nitish Kumar should stop living in past glory - 2005 was 19 years ago! Bihar needs fresh leadership now.
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Vikram M
BJP's silence speaks volumes! They know Chirag has a point but can't afford to upset Nitish before elections. This NDA is like a forced marriage where no one is happy. Bihar deserves better than this political tamasha.
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Priya S
Manjhi calling Chirag immature is rich coming from someone who changes parties every election! At least Chirag is raising real concerns. My sister in Gaya doesn't step out after dark because of chain snatching incidents. Is this the 'Sushasan' we were promised?
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Karthik V
Respectfully disagree with Chirag here. While there are issues, comparing today's Bihar to Lalu-Rabri era is unfair. The police response time has improved significantly. But yes, government must do more to control organized crime.

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