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New ED charge sheet in "land for jobs" case against Lalu and relatives

Richa Pandey
02 Apr, 2025

In a major escalation of the **"land-for-jobs" scam** investigation, the **Enforcement Directorate (ED)** has filed a fresh charge sheet against **RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, his wife Rabri Devi, and daughter Misa Bharti**, alleging money laundering and illegal land acquisitions. The case, which has been a political lightning rod in Bihar, could have significant ramifications ahead of the 2024 general elections.

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What is the 'Land-for-Jobs' Scam?**

The case pertains to allegations that **during Lalu Prasad Yadav’s tenure as Railway Minister (2004–2009)**, his family acquired **prime land parcels in Patna and other Bihar districts at throwaway prices** from individuals who were later given Group-D jobs in Indian Railways. Key allegations include:

- **Illegal Appointments:** Over **1,500 candidates** were allegedly recruited in exchange for land transfers to Lalu’s family or associates.

- **Undervalued Land Deals:** The ED claims that **plots worth crores were sold to Lalu’s kin for as little as ₹1–5 lakh**.

- **Shell Companies & Layering:** Proceeds from these transactions were allegedly laundered through **benami holdings and shell firms** linked to the Yadav family.

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*Details of the New ED Charge Sheet**

The latest prosecution complaint, filed under the **Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA)**, includes:

1. **New Evidence:**

- **Digital records** of property transactions and bank trails.

- Statements from **witnesses and alleged middlemen** who facilitated the deals.

2. **Expanded Accused List:**

- Besides Lalu, Rabri, and Misa, the ED has named **15 others**, including businessmen and former railway officials.

3. **Proceeds of Crime:**

- The ED has attached **12 properties** worth ₹60 crore so far, including a **Delhi farmhouse linked to Misa Bharti**.

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Political Fallout in Bihar**

The timing of the charge sheet—months before elections—has sparked a war of words:

- **RJD’s Defense:**

- Lalu’s party calls it a **"political witch-hunt"** by the BJP-led Centre.

- Tejashwi Yadav, Bihar’s Deputy CM, dismissed the charges as **"revenge for the INDIA bloc’s rise."**

- **BJP’s Counter:**

- Union Minister **Ravi Shankar Prasad** said, *"Lalu’s family treated Railways as a personal fiefdom. The law is now catching up."*

- The BJP aims to use the case to **undercut RJD’s backward-class support base**.

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*Legal Implications & Next Steps**

- **PMLA Court Proceedings:** The special court will examine the charge sheet; if prima facie evidence is found, a trial will commence.

- **Possible Arrests?** While Lalu (already convicted in the fodder scam) enjoys bail, the ED could push for custodial interrogation of other accused.

- **CBI’s Parallel Probe:** The CBI, investigating the corruption angle, may file its own supplementary charge sheet soon.

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Broader Message on Corruption vs. Vendetta Debate**

- **Opposition’s Claim:**

- INDIA alliance leaders argue that **central agencies are being weaponized** against opposition figures (e.g., AAP’s Manish Sisodia, TMC’s Abhishek Banerjee).

- Government’s Stand:**

- The ED insists it acts **"without political bias,"** citing similar actions against BJP leaders like Narayan Rane.

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Conclusion: A High-Stakes Legal Battle

The ED’s latest move tightens the noose around Lalu’s family, but its **political optics may overshadow legal outcomes**. If proven guilty, the Yadavs could face **disqualification and asset seizures**, dealing a blow to RJD’s revival. However, if the case drags without convictions, it risks being seen as another **election-season smear campaign**.

For Bihar’s voters, the **"land-for-jobs" case** is now a litmus test—will they view it as **accountability or vendetta?** The answer could shape the state’s 2024 electoral landscape.