Delhi HC Rejects Lalu Yadav’s Plea to Halt Land-for-Jobs Scam Trial

National News: The Delhi High Court has rejected RJD chief and former Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav's plea to quash the CBI FIR in the land for job case. The case, under investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), alleges that Yadav, during his tenure as Union Railway Minister from 2004 to 2009, facilitated railway jobs in exchange for land transfers to his family at below-market rates. The court’s ruling clears the path for charge framing to begin on June 2, intensifying legal scrutiny on the former Bihar Chief Minister and his family.

Allegations and CBI Investigation

The land-for-jobs scam centers on accusations that Lalu Yadav, as Railway Minister, orchestrated a scheme to appoint Group D railway employees in the West Central Railway zone in Jabalpur in return for land parcels transferred to his wife, Rabri Devi, and son, Tejashwi Yadav, at nominal prices. The CBI filed an FIR in May 2022, naming Yadav, his family members, and associates, including former RJD MLA Bhola Yadav, as accused. The agency alleges that between 2004 and 2009, 12 land deals were executed, with beneficiaries securing jobs without proper qualifications. The CBI’s chargesheet, filed in October 2022, claims violations under the Prevention of Corruption Act and Indian Penal Code sections for criminal conspiracy and cheating. Yadav’s legal team, led by Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, argued that the CBI’s probe lacked mandatory prior sanction under Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act, rendering the FIR invalid. The Delhi High Court, however, ruled that such objections could be raised during the trial, refusing to halt proceedings.

Court’s Ruling and Political Fallout

The decision marks a setback for Yadav, already convicted in multiple fodder scam cases, and raises the stakes for his family, with Rabri Devi, Tejashwi Yadav, and daughters Misa Bharti and Hema Yadav also named in the case. The RJD has decried the ruling as politically motivated, alleging that the BJP-led central government is targeting opposition leaders. Posts on X reflect polarized sentiments, with some hailing the court’s decision as a step toward accountability, while RJD supporters claim it’s a witch hunt. The case’s progression could impact the RJD’s standing in Bihar, especially with upcoming elections, as Tejashwi, a key party figure, faces increased scrutiny.

Broader Implications for Yadav’s Legacy

The land-for-jobs case adds to Lalu Yadav’s long history of legal battles, which began with the 1990s fodder scam and have kept him in the political and judicial spotlight. The CBI’s ongoing probe, coupled with the Enforcement Directorate’s parallel money-laundering investigation, threatens to further tarnish his legacy as a champion of social justice in Bihar. The court’s refusal to stay the trial underscores the judiciary’s commitment to addressing high-profile corruption cases, regardless of political stature. As the charge framing nears, the focus will shift to the evidence, including property documents and witness testimonies, which could determine the fate of Yadav and his family. The case also highlights the broader challenge of political accountability in India, where allegations of misuse of power continue to shape public discourse.