New Delhi: A Delhi court on Monday deferred its order on the framing of charges in the land-for-jobs corruption case involving former Railway Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, his family members, and several others. The Rouse Avenue Court will now pronounce its order on December 4.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had filed a charge sheet against Lalu Prasad Yadav, Rabri Devi, Tejashwi Yadav, Misa Bharti, Hema Yadav, Tej Pratap Yadav, and other accused in the case. Special Judge Vishal Gogne deferred the order after taking note of the submissions made by both the prosecution and the defence.
The case pertains to allegations that several individuals were appointed to Railway jobs in exchange for land parcels during Lalu Prasad Yadav’s tenure as Union Railway Minister.
On September 11, the court had reserved its order on whether charges should be framed against the accused. During the arguments, Special Public Prosecutor D.P. Singh, representing the CBI, contended that there was sufficient evidence to proceed with charges against the accused persons.
However, senior advocate Maninder Singh, appearing for Lalu Prasad Yadav, argued that the case was politically motivated and lacked credible evidence.
“There is no proof that jobs were given in exchange for land. The sale deeds show that land was purchased for money. No rule was violated, and no recommendation was made by Lalu Prasad Yadav for any candidate,” he submitted.
The defence further argued that no Railway General Manager had claimed to have met Lalu Prasad Yadav regarding appointments, asserting that no case of corruption was made out merely by calling him a “kingpin.”
Appearing for Rabri Devi, counsel argued that she had purchased land through legitimate transactions, stating,
“Buying land by paying money is not a crime. No undue favour was granted, and these transactions are independent.”
The defence maintained that the CBI had failed to establish any direct link between the alleged appointments and the land transfers, emphasizing that all due processes were followed.
The Rouse Avenue Court will now deliver its order on framing of charges on December 4.
