Former Railway Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav and former Bihar Chief Minister Rabri Devi appeared before the Rouse Avenue Court in Delhi on Tuesday regarding the Land-for-Job case. The court proceedings are moving towards the final stage of framing charges against the accused. The judge has now set a clear timeline for the trial, which is scheduled to begin shortly on a daily basis.
What happened during the court hearing?
Lalu Prasad Yadav and Rabri Devi appeared in person on February 24, 2026, following the court’s earlier direction asking all accused to complete their physical appearance formalities between February 1 and February 25. While the couple had already pleaded “not guilty” during a session on February 16, this appearance was necessary for the remaining legal procedures.
Special Judge Vishal Gogne has scheduled the next hearing for February 27, 2026. This upcoming date is important as the court plans to complete the framing of charges for all other accused individuals involved in the case.
What are the main allegations in this case?
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) alleges that during Lalu Prasad Yadav’s tenure as Union Railway Minister from 2004 to 2009, several people were given Group D railway jobs in exchange for land. These land parcels were allegedly transferred to the Yadav family at rates much lower than the market value.
According to the investigation agencies:
- CBI Data: Properties worth approximately ₹4.39 crore were acquired by the family for just ₹26 lakh.
- ED Data: The Enforcement Directorate estimates that the total proceeds of crime in this case amount to roughly ₹600 crore.
- The Charge: The judge previously remarked that public employment was allegedly used as a “bargaining chip” to acquire personal real estate.
When will the final trial begin?
The court has passed a significant order regarding the timeline of the case. The trial will officially commence on March 9, 2026. To ensure a speedy process, the judge has ordered that the trial will proceed on a day-to-day basis.
Currently, charges are being framed against 41 individuals, including members of the Yadav family. However, 52 other individuals, mostly candidates who did not provide land and some officials, were earlier discharged due to a lack of sufficient evidence. The defense lawyer, Maninder Singh, continues to argue that the case is politically motivated and that the land transactions were legitimate purchases.
