In a candid conversation at News18’s Rising Bharat Summit, Union Minister and LJP leader Chirag Paswan spoke highly of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling him a leader who acknowledges and swiftly acts on issues raised by NDA allies. He cited a personal example where the PM responded positively to his concern over lateral entry in government, reflecting a responsive and inclusive leadership style within the alliance.
Chirag Paswan shared that he had raised the matter of lateral entry with the Prime Minister, who not only acknowledged the concern but also withdrew the decision immediately. The incident, Chirag Paswan suggested, demonstrated that voices within the NDA are not only heard but acted upon. He credited Modi for ensuring alliance members feel respected and empowered in policy discussions.
Turning his attention to the Opposition, Chirag Paswan criticized their decision to move the Supreme Court against the recent amendments to the Waqf Law. He argued that under the old system, poor Muslims had limited legal recourse and that the current criticism is rooted in appeasement politics. According to him, the new Waqf amendments empower marginalised sections like Pasmanda Muslims, women, and children, giving them greater legal protection and agency.
His remarks came a day after PM Modi, during his keynote speech at the summit, called out the Opposition for resisting reforms like the Waqf Law under the guise of appeasement. Modi asserted that the new law was designed to strengthen the rights of underprivileged Muslim communities and push back against political exploitation.
On the matter of the upcoming Bihar Legislative Assembly elections, Chirag Paswan clarified that discussions on seat-sharing among NDA allies have not yet begun. However, he expressed optimism that all partners in the coalition will receive a respectful number of seats. The NDA coalition in Bihar includes the BJP, JD(U), LJP (Ram Vilas), Hindustani Awami Morcha, and Rashtriya Lok Samta Party.
