Just before the Bihar Assembly elections, a significant development has emerged for Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav. The Rouse Avenue Court has framed charges against him in the IRCTC Scam case.
New Delhi: Just ahead of the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections, a major political and legal setback has emerged for Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav and his family. The Rouse Avenue Court has framed charges against a total of 16 accused, including Lalu Yadav, his wife Rabri Devi, and son Tejashwi Yadav, in the IRCTC Scam case. This development is considered to have a significant impact on Bihar's politics and the electoral strategy of the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance).
After framing the charges, the court asked Lalu Yadav if he accepted them. Lalu Yadav clearly stated that he does not accept the charges. In this particular case, the IRCTC scam has been kept separate from the previously well-known "Land for Job" scam.
A Total of 16 Accused, Including Lalu's Family
In this case, apart from Lalu Yadav, his wife Rabri Devi and son Tejashwi Yadav have also been named as accused. Additionally, a total of 16 individuals are involved in this scam. During the court hearing, all three – Lalu, Rabri, and Tejashwi – were present to record their statements. The CBI had filed a new charge sheet in this scam. After the hearing, the court clarified that there was interference by Lalu Yadav in the tender process, and he and his family benefited from this scam.
Background of the IRCTC Scam
The IRCTC scam dates back to the period when Lalu Prasad Yadav served as India's Railway Minister from 2004 to 2009. During that time, IRCTC issued tenders for the maintenance and operation of two hotels. It is alleged that by manipulating the tender, Lalu Yadav awarded the hotel contract to Subodh Kumar Sinha's company, Sujata Hotels Private Limited.
In return, Lalu Yadav and his family were allegedly provided valuable land parcels in Patna at significantly low prices. This is why the case is considered serious and sensitive.
Political Crisis for the Lalu Family
Just before the 2025 Bihar elections, this case has plunged the RJD into a political challenge. Electoral strategists suggest that such legal cases can be leveraged by the opposition as electoral issues, potentially affecting the standing of the Mahagathbandhan. Political experts indicate that maintaining the image of the Lalu family and the trust among their supporters could be challenging in this election. Meanwhile, the party will strive to control this legal setback to minimize its impact on their electoral strategy.
