Patna: The “Land-for-Job” scandal has delivered a major blow to RJD supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav and his family. A court has now formally framed charges in the case, implicating Lalu, his wife Rabri Devi, daughter Misa Bharti, and sons Tej Pratap and Tejashwi Yadav.
The Allegations
Lalu Prasad Yadav, during his tenure as Railway Minister in the UPA-1 government (2004–2009), is accused of accepting land in exchange for jobs in the Railway Department. The scandal primarily concerns Group D recruitments, where it is alleged that Lalu manipulated the selection process and demanded land as a bribe for securing employment.
According to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) chargesheet, the Lalu family allegedly acquired land at seven different locations through these illegal dealings, involving a total of ₹600 crore in money laundering. The CBI has registered a case against Lalu and several family members for their roles in the scandal.
How the Scam Unfolded
During his tenure as Railway Minister, Lalu is alleged to have personally overseen Group D recruitments without issuing proper public advertisements. Those seeking employment were allegedly forced to provide land as a bribe, which was then registered in the names of family members, including Rabri Devi and Misa Bharti.
The CBI report further notes that Lalu acquired land plots at substantially undervalued prices, in some cases obtaining property worth ₹4 crore for just ₹26 lakh. The scam primarily benefitted individuals from Bihar, and many jobs were distributed without adherence to official procedures.
Family Members Accused
The charges have been framed against five members of the Lalu family:
- Lalu Prasad Yadav – Former Railway Minister
- Rabri Devi – Wife
- Tej Pratap Yadav – Son
- Tejashwi Yadav – Son
- Misa Bharti – Daughter
The allegations claim that Lalu used his ministerial position to secure jobs in the railway for individuals in exchange for land, which was then registered in the names of his family members.
Current Status
With the charges now formally framed, the case marks a significant escalation in legal proceedings against one of India’s most prominent political families. The investigation continues, with further scrutiny expected regarding the financial irregularities and property acquisitions tied to the railway recruitment scam.
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