Land for Job Case: Court Directs Lalu Family to Appear in Person, Daily Hearing to Begin from March 9

In a significant development in the Land for Job case, the Rouse Avenue Court in New Delhi on Thursday directed key accused members of the Lalu Prasad Yadav family to appear personally before the court for the formal framing of charges.

The court ordered RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, former Bihar Chief Minister Rabri Devi, Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav, and Tej Pratap Yadav to be present in person. However, granting conditional relief, the court allowed them to appear on any date between February 1 and February 25, subject to prior intimation to the court at least one day in advance.

Plea for Exemption Cited Age and Health

During the hearing, Lalu Prasad Yadav and Rabri Devi sought exemption from personal appearance citing advanced age and health-related issues. Tejashwi Yadav also filed an application seeking exemption on medical grounds. The court considered the pleas before passing its order.

The court clarified that personal appearance is mandatory for completing the legal process of framing of charges, and therefore directed the accused to ensure compliance within the stipulated period.

Misa Bharti and Hema Yadav Appear Before Court

RJD MP from Patliputra Misa Bharti and her sister Hema Yadav appeared personally before the court during the proceedings. Both denied all allegations leveled against them and stated that they would contest the case legally.

Trial to Commence from March 9

The court further informed that the trial in the CBI case related to the Land for Job matter will begin from March 9, following which regular day-to-day hearings will take place. The proceedings will include examination of witnesses and other statutory legal formalities.

Earlier, the Rouse Avenue Court had taken cognizance of the CBI chargesheet and ordered framing of charges against 46 accused, including members of the Lalu family. Meanwhile, 52 other accused were discharged due to lack of evidence.

The Land for Job case pertains to alleged irregular appointments made in the Indian Railways during Lalu Prasad Yadav’s tenure as Union Railway Minister, in exchange for transfer of land parcels to his family members.

The upcoming trial is expected to be closely watched, given its political significance and legal implications.