The Delhi High Court, on January 5, 2026, issued directions to the Central Bureau of Investigation to file a formal response to a criminal revision petition submitted by Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Lalu Prasad Yadav. The petition vigorously contests the recent trial court order that framed serious charges against him, his wife Rabri Devi, son Tejashwi Prasad Yadav, and several associates in the protracted alleged IRCTC scam case, which pertains to purported irregularities during his stint as Union Railway Minister.
Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma, presiding over the matter, formally notified the CBI regarding the main petition as well as an interim application requesting suspension of ongoing trial proceedings. The court, however, expressly declined to impose any stay on the trial at this preliminary stage, clarifying that such a measure could only be considered after a thorough examination of the investigating agency's detailed reply. The case has been adjourned and fixed for the next hearing on January 14.
The impugned order originates from October 13, 2025, when the special trial court proceeded to frame charges against a total of 14 accused individuals. These charges encompass criminal conspiracy and cheating under relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code, coupled with offenses under the Prevention of Corruption Act that address abuse of official position to secure undue advantages. The allegations center on questionable land and share transactions linked to railway hotel projects.
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In its detailed reasoning, the trial court made pointed observations, characterizing the transactions as potentially emblematic of crony capitalism concealed under the pretext of promoting private sector involvement in the development of railway properties in Ranchi and Puri. Specific charges under the Prevention of Corruption Act were leveled against several co-accused, focusing on criminal misconduct by public servants through corrupt or illegal means.
A unified charge of criminal conspiracy, interlinked with cheating and corruption provisions, was directed against all accused parties. The potential sentences carry significant weight, with the Prevention of Corruption Act prescribing a maximum of ten years imprisonment and the cheating offense under the IPC carrying up to seven years, reflecting the seriousness with which authorities view the case as it advances through the judicial process.
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