Will the Delhi Court Decide on Charges Against Lalu Yadav and His Family?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, Dec 19 (NationPress) A Delhi court has reserved its ruling regarding the framing of charges in the purported land-for-job corruption scandal involving Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Lalu Prasad Yadav, his relatives, and several other defendants.
Special Judge (PC Act) Vishal Gogne of the Rouse Avenue Courts announced that the verdict will be delivered on January 9, 2026, after considering arguments concerning alleged inappropriate appointments to Group ‘D’ positions in the Railways in exchange for land parcels.
The court is investigating whether charges should be filed against the accused under Sections 120B, 420, 467, 468, and 471 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), along with stipulations of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
This case involves allegations of extensive corruption that occurred between 2004 and 2009, during which Lalu Prasad served as the Union Railway Minister.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) claims that land parcels were acquired under the names of Lalu’s family members and an associated company, frequently at prices below market value and primarily through cash transactions. In exchange, jobs in the railway sector were allegedly granted across various zones.
The agency has identified 103 individuals as accused in this case, including Lalu Prasad Yadav, former Bihar Chief Minister Rabri Devi, ex-Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav, MP Misa Bharti, Hema Yadav, and former minister Tej Pratap Yadav.
However, proceedings against five defendants have ceased due to their deaths.
The Union Home Ministry has already provided authorization to prosecute Lalu Prasad in this matter.
In parallel, both the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) are investigating the suspected money-laundering activities related to land transactions in Patna.
Previously, the Supreme Court declined to hear Lalu Prasad Yadav’s request for a stay on the trial proceedings after the Delhi High Court also refused to halt the case despite multiple charge sheets submitted by the CBI.