National News: RJD chief and former Bihar Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav has received a major legal blow as the Supreme Court declined to stay the ongoing trial court proceedings in the alleged land-for-job scam. A bench of Justice M.M. Sundaresh and Justice N. Kotiswar Singh observed that the Delhi High Court should complete the case hearing promptly, ensuring a timely resolution.
While the Supreme Court denied relief in terms of stopping the trial, it allowed Yadav exemption from personally appearing in court, offering him partial relief in the matter.
What is the Land-for-Job Scam?
The case pertains to the period between 2004 and 2009, when Lalu Prasad Yadav held the post of Union Railway Minister. According to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), several individuals were allegedly appointed to Group D positions in the Railways, and in return, they transferred land—at prices far below market value—to Lalu Yadav's family members or close associates.
Latest Developments
Lalu Yadav has challenged the FIR filed by the CBI, seeking its cancellation in the Delhi High Court. However, in a hearing held on May 29, the High Court stated that there was no valid reason to stop the trial court's proceedings.
The High Court has since issued a notice to the CBI, and the case is now set for its next hearing on August 12. The Supreme Court has also directed that the High Court should ensure speedy disposal of the matter.
This ruling signals a critical setback for Lalu Yadav’s legal battle, even though the temporary exemption from court appearances may provide limited comfort. The investigation and trial will move forward as planned.
Lalu Yadav's political career at stake
Legal experts believe that the Supreme Court’s refusal to intervene at this stage reflects the seriousness of the charges and the judiciary’s intent to allow due process. With the trial court proceedings set to continue and the High Court’s hearing approaching, the case is expected to play a significant role in shaping the legal and political future of Lalu Yadav, who has already faced convictions in multiple fodder scam cases in the past. The developments in the coming weeks will be closely watched both by the legal community and the political landscape of Bihar.
