In a major development in the IRCTC scam, a Delhi court has formally framed criminal charges against RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, his wife Rabri Devi, and son Tejashwi Yadav. Special Judge Vishal Gogne of Rouse Avenue Courts held that Lalu Yadav, during his tenure as Railway Minister between 2004 and 2009, manipulated the tender process to award two IRCTC hotels in Ranchi and Puri to Sujata Hotels. In return, prime land and shares worth crores were allegedly transferred at undervalued rates to companies linked to his family, causing significant loss to the public exchequer.
IRCTC Scam
Charges of corruption, criminal conspiracy, and cheating have been framed against Lalu, while Tejashwi and Rabri face multiple offences, including conspiracy and cheating. The Yadav family has denied wrongdoing, claiming political motivation.
The court observed that the case demonstrates crony capitalism disguised as private participation, noting that the transactions were prima facie fraudulent. The trial will now proceed since all the accused have pleaded not guilty, with the CBI prosecution led by Special Public Prosecutor DP Singh.
