Bhubaneswar, Oct 14: In a significant development in the IRCTC corruption case, a Delhi court has framed charges against Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, his wife Rabri Devi, and son Tejashwi Yadav, officials said on tuesa. The charges include criminal conspiracy, corruption, and cheating in connection with irregularities during Lalu’s tenure as Railway Minister.

Alleged Land-for-Hotel Scam

The case revolves around allegations that prime land in Patna was exchanged for awarding maintenance and operation contracts of two IRCTC hotels — one in Odisha’s Puri, and another in Ranchi, Jharkhand — to a private company, Sujata Hotels. According to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Lalu misused his ministerial position to favor Sujata Hotels, owned by Vinay and Vijay Kochhar, in exchange for valuable property.

The Puri hotel, part of the Bengal Nagpur Railway (BNR) chain, was allegedly handed over under a manipulated tender process. In return, Lalu is accused of acquiring premium land worth Rs1.5 crore through a benami firm named Delight Marketing Company. Between 2010 and 2014, ownership of this firm was gradually transferred to Rabri Devi and Tejashwi Yadav.

Court Frames Charges Against Lalu and Family

The Delhi court’s decision to frame charges marks a turning point in the long-pending investigation. The court found sufficient evidence to proceed with trial against Lalu, Rabri, and Tejashwi under various sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act and the Indian Penal Code.

The CBI claims the deal was a quid pro quo arrangement disguised as legitimate business transactions. The alleged misuse of public office and transfer of assets to family members has intensified scrutiny on the Yadav family’s financial dealings.

Political Fallout and Legal Road Ahead

The case, dating back to Lalu’s tenure as Railway Minister between 2004 to 2009, continues to cast a shadow over the RJD leadership. With the court now moving forward, the trial is expected to bring more revelations about the nexus between political power and private gain.

The Yadav family questioned the probe and said that there was no evidence against them. They maintain that the case is politically motivated.

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