In a major setback for the RJD, Lalu Prasad Yadav, his wife Rabri Devi, and their son Tejashwi Yadav will now face trial in the IRCTC hotel scam case. A Delhi court has framed charges against the family, alleging cheating, conspiracy, and misuse of public office.
The decision comes just a few weeks ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections, adding fresh political heat. The case involves alleged irregularities in tender processes and the transfer of state assets to the Yadav family.
Delhi Court Frames Charges Against Lalu Yadav Family in IRCTC Scam
A Delhi court has formally directed that charges be framed against former Bihar Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, Rabri Devi, and Tejashwi Yadav. The court noted that Lalu Yadav had “engaged in conspiracy” and “abused his position” as a public servant.
All three accused have pleaded not guilty. The trial is expected to proceed in the coming months, adding to the political tension in Bihar just before the elections.
What is the IRCTC Hotel Scam?
The IRCTC hotel scam involves alleged corruption in awarding maintenance contracts for two hotels — BNR Ranchi and BNR Puri. The CBI has alleged that these contracts were awarded favourably to Sujata Hotels, which Vijay and Vinay Kochar own.
It is claimed that Lalu Yadav received prime land in Patna through a benami company. The tender conditions were allegedly manipulated to favour the private firm, and undervalued land parcels were transferred to Rabri Devi and Tejashwi Yadav, causing financial loss to the state.
How Lalu, Rabri, & Tejashwi Are Alleged to Be Involved?
Lalu Prasad Yadav: He is accused of abusing his position as Railway Minister (2004–2009). He allegedly intervened in the tender process, manipulated eligibility conditions, and arranged the undervalued transfer of land parcels from the Kochar family.
Rabri Devi: She is alleged to have received control of the land parcels through Lalu Yadav’s scheme. The court noted that the transfer of shares to her appeared prima facie fraudulent.
Tejashwi Yadav: He is alleged to have benefited from the undervalued land transfers and conspired with Lalu and Rabri Devi to gain control over the assets.
The court observed that their actions caused financial loss to the state exchequer and showed a “grave suspicion” of conspiracy and fraud.
Allegations and Court Findings
Lalu Yadav: Charged with criminal misconduct by a public servant and criminal conspiracy to commit cheating.
Rabri Devi and Tejashwi Yadav: Charged with cheating and conspiracy to commit cheating under Sections 420 and 120B of the IPC.
The court emphasized that these actions potentially caused losses to the state exchequer.
Key Accused in the Case
Apart from the Yadav family, the CBI chargesheet names:
- VK Asthana and RK Goyal, Group General Managers of IRCTC
- Vijay Kochhar and Vinay Kochhar, directors of Sujata Hotels
The trial will examine the alleged conspiracy, tender manipulation, and undervaluation of assets connected to these individuals.
Political Implications
The ruling comes just weeks before the Bihar Assembly elections, putting the RJD leadership under scrutiny. Political analysts say this could influence public perception ahead of the polls.
During the hearing, Lalu Yadav argued that no material existed to frame charges against him. He claimed that the tenders were awarded fairly and transparently.
