The Rouse Avenue Court in New Delhi has announced a significant update regarding the Land-for-Job scam case involving former Railway Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav and his family. The court has ordered that the trial will be conducted on a daily basis starting from March 9, 2026. This decision aims to speed up the recording of evidence and proceedings for the 41 individuals facing trial in this corruption case.
What happened in the recent court hearing?
During the proceedings on January 29, 2026, Special Judge Vishal Gogne recorded the formal pleas of the accused who were present. RJD Chief Lalu Prasad’s daughters, Misa Bharti and Hema Yadav, appeared physically in the court. Both denied the allegations against them and pleaded not guilty, stating they are ready to face the trial.
The judge also made strong observations about the case, noting earlier that the setup operated like a criminal syndicate where jobs were exchanged for land parcels. While Misa and Hema were present, other key family members requested permission to skip the hearing for the day.
When will Lalu Prasad and others appear?
Lalu Prasad Yadav, his wife Rabri Devi, and sons Tejashwi Yadav and Tej Pratap Yadav were granted a one-day exemption from personal appearance due to medical and age-related reasons. However, the court has set strict rules for their mandatory appearance soon.
- Appearance Window: The exempted family members must appear in court between February 1 and February 25, 2026.
- Purpose: Their presence is required for the formal framing of charges.
- Notice Rule: They must inform the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) one day before they plan to visit the court.
- Trial Schedule: Once the daily hearings begin on March 9, the process will focus on prosecution evidence.
