In a significant development in the high-profile Land for Jobs scam case, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav appeared before the Rouse Avenue Court in Delhi on Monday. Facing allegations linked to the CBI probe, the Bihar opposition leader firmly rejected all charges leveled against him. Opting to contest the case in trial, Yadav set the stage for a prolonged legal battle that is slated to commence regular hearings from March 9.
The case traces back to the period between 2004 and 2009 when Lalu Prasad Yadav served as Railway Minister. CBI investigations allege that Group-D railway jobs were doled out in exchange for prime land parcels transferred to the Lalu family or their associates across various districts in Bihar. These plots were later registered in the names of family members, painting a picture of a meticulously orchestrated scheme.
The Rouse Avenue Court had earlier summoned Lalu Prasad, Rabri Devi, Tejashwi, and Tej Pratap Yadav to frame formal charges. In a stern observation, the court likened the family’s actions to those of a criminal syndicate, accusing them of hatching a broad conspiracy. Although Tejashwi had missed an earlier hearing, he complied with the February 15 deadline, presenting himself in court to plead not guilty.
Speaking to the media post-appearance, Tejashwi dismissed the proceedings as politically motivated, expressing full faith in the judicial process. He avoided commenting on his elder brother Tej Pratap’s recent accusations against fellow RJD leaders, maintaining a stoic silence. Tej Pratap, now heading the Jan Shakti Janata Dal, had branded five RJD figures as traitors plotting against the party.
As the trial looms, this case continues to cast a shadow over the Yadav family’s political legacy in Bihar. With regular proceedings kicking off next month, all eyes are on how Tejashwi navigates these serious corruption allegations amid intensifying political rivalries.