Explosive Allegations: CBI Accuses Lalu Prasad Yadav of Exploiting Job Aspirants in Land-for-Jobs Scam

New Delhi: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) made damning claims in court on Tuesday, stating that Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief and former Union railway minister Lalu Prasad Yadav exploited job aspirants by trading Group D posts in Indian Railways for land parcels in Bihar. These serious allegations were presented before Special Judge Vishal Gogne at the Rouse Avenue Court in Delhi during the hearing on the framing of charges in the controversial land-for-jobs scam.

CBI Claims Lalu Prasad Yadav Exploited Job Aspirants in Exchange for Land

The CBI’s counsel revealed that the scam involved several beneficiaries from economically weaker sections who were promised railway jobs in return for transferring their land to Lalu Prasad Yadav and his family members. These transactions reportedly occurred without fair compensation and involved undervaluation of the land. According to the agency, the scheme functioned during Yadav’s tenure as railway minister from 2004 to 2009.

The agency argued that these actions reflected a systematic abuse of power, where Lalu Prasad Yadav exploited job aspirants to enrich his family. In some cases, land was sold at throwaway prices or transferred as gifts, raising serious questions about coercion and corruption.

Multiple Beneficiaries, But a Single Benefactor: CBI

The CBI emphasized that while many job aspirants from underprivileged backgrounds were affected, the only consistent beneficiary was Lalu Prasad Yadav and his close relatives. Properties were allegedly registered under the names of his wife Rabri Devi, daughters, and even shell companies associated with his family.

“This was not just nepotism; this was exploitation of desperation,” the CBI counsel argued. “The victims were people from marginalized communities, whose economic vulnerability was misused for personal gain.”

Court Proceedings Intensify in High-Profile Scam

Judge Vishal Gogne is currently hearing arguments on whether sufficient grounds exist to formally frame charges against Lalu Prasad Yadav and other accused individuals, including his family members and former railway officials.

The court has previously acknowledged the complexity of the case and has noted the importance of allowing both the prosecution and the defense to fully present their arguments. However, the CBI insists that there is clear evidence that Lalu Prasad Yadav exploited job aspirants, constituting criminal misconduct and conspiracy.

Political Ramifications for RJD

These fresh developments come at a time when the RJD is trying to strengthen its position in Bihar’s political landscape. Lalu Prasad Yadav has always maintained that the charges are politically motivated and designed to undermine his party’s influence. However, the allegations are likely to fuel public debate, especially among voters who supported him for his championing of the underprivileged.

The case also risks damaging the political careers of his children, including Tejashwi Yadav, who is seen as his heir apparent in the RJD and Bihar politics.

What’s Next in the Land-for-Jobs Case?

The court is expected to rule soon on whether formal charges will be framed. If that happens, Lalu Prasad Yadav and others may have to stand trial in what is being seen as one of the most significant corruption cases in recent years involving a former Union minister.

The CBI is pushing for swift judicial action, arguing that the evidence is strong and the pattern of behavior consistent. Meanwhile, the defense team continues to deny all wrongdoing and has asked for more time to respond to the charges.

Regardless of the outcome, the spotlight remains firmly on how Lalu Prasad Yadav exploited job aspirants, a narrative that could influence public perception and voter sentiment in upcoming elections.