The leader of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Lalu Prasad Yadav, his wife Rabri Devi, and their son Tejashwi Yadav, are heading to Delhi today. It is reported that the Lalu family will attend a hearing at Rouse Avenue Court on October 13, tackling allegations related to the land-for-jobs scam. The court had previously reserved its decision in this matter, with a special judge now expected to announce the verdict on Monday. The court has instructed Lalu, Rabri, Tejashwi, along with all accused, to attend in person.
On August 25, 2025, the special CBI court concluded its hearing on the land-for-jobs case, after carefully reviewing evidence and arguments from all parties. A verdict was reserved, with October 13 set as the date for the announcement.
Attendance mandated for all parties
Special Judge Vishal Gogne, presiding over the case, ordered all accused, including Lalu, Rabri, and Tejashwi, to be present on October 13. With this directive, the Yadavs are making their way to Delhi. Other accused allegedly include several close RJD associates and purported intermediaries.
In May 2022, the CBI filed a chargesheet against 16 individuals, including Lalu Prasad Yadav, Rabri Devi, Tejashwi Yadav, and their daughter Misha Bharti, in connection to the scandal. The investigation unearthed that numerous properties, notably in Patna, were transferred either under the family's names or their close allies.
BJP's critique of the Yadav family
The land-for-job case has sparked political uproar across Bihar and nationally. Labeling it as significant evidence of corruption, BJP and opposing parties have been critical of the Lalu family. BJP leaders have targeted the RJD and the Yadav family, terming it an example of dynastic corruption.
The verdict from Special Judge Vishal Gogne at Rouse Avenue Court on October 13 will determine the guilt of Lalu, Rabri, Tejashwi, and other accused. A conviction could lead to immediate sentencing details, whereas an acquittal might bring great relief for the RJD.
Understanding the land-for-jobs scam
The land-for-jobs scandal traces back to 2004-2009, during Lalu Prasad Yadav's tenure as Railways Minister under the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) alleges that during this period, properties or land were moved into the Yadavs' name in exchange for Group D job appointments. According to the CBI, Lalu, Rabri, Tejashwi, and other accused facilitated job placements for money, obtaining properties unethically in return.
