Patna, Bihar, April 14, 2025 — Pashupati Kumar Paras, the chief of Rashtriya Lok Janshakti Party (RLJP), announced on Monday that his party is severing ties with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Paras expressed that despite the party’s loyalty to the alliance since 2014, RLJP had been treated unfairly, particularly during the Lok Sabha elections, largely due to its Dalit roots.
In a press statement in Patna, Bihar, Paras emphasized that RLJP was not given the respect it deserved within the alliance, as indicated by the BJP and JD(U) state chiefs referring to themselves as the “5 Pandavas” during recent NDA meetings, without mentioning RLJP’s name. He also cited instances where the party felt marginalized during discussions in the state over the last 6-8 months.
Paras went on to clarify that the RLJP is preparing for the upcoming assembly elections in Bihar and intends to contest all 243 seats. He also hinted at the possibility of joining the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance), should they offer the party due respect and a favorable position in the future.
“We were compelled to take this decision… We are now among the people and have started a membership drive. We are preparing for all 243 seats… If Mahagathbandhan gives us proper respect at the right time, we will definitely consider future political possibilities,” said Pashupati Kumar Paras.
Paras noted that although RLJP had supported the NDA in previous elections, the party was consistently overlooked, particularly when BJP and JD(U) leaders spoke about the alliance without acknowledging RLJP’s contribution.
A high-stakes electoral battle is anticipated in Bihar, with the NDA, comprising Janata Dal (United) led by CM Nitish Kumar and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), facing off against the Mahagathbandhan, which includes Congress, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), and the left parties. The elections are expected to take place between October-November, although official dates have not been announced yet.
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