President Droupadi Murmu has granted sanction to prosecute Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav in a money laundering case linked to the alleged railways land-for-jobs scam. The move comes ahead of the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections, prompting RJD leaders to accuse the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of political vendetta.
Case Background
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) have been investigating allegations that land parcels were transferred to Lalu Prasad’s family members in exchange for railway jobs during his tenure as Union Railways Minister (2004-2009). The CBI has filed multiple chargesheets, and the ED has submitted prosecution complaints against Lalu Prasad, his wife Rabri Devi, son Tejashwi Yadav, and other associates.
Political Reactions
- RJD spokesperson Subodh Kumar Mehta claimed that the BJP is nervous ahead of the Bihar polls and is using the case to target opposition leaders.
- BJP leaders, however, defended the prosecution, stating that it is a natural legal process and not politically motivated.
- The trial proceedings are expected to begin soon, following the President’s approval.
Legal & Electoral Implications
With Bihar’s elections approaching, the case is likely to intensify political debates. While the RJD maintains that the charges are baseless, the BJP argues that the prosecution is necessary for accountability. The developments could impact voter sentiment, especially among Lalu Prasad’s core support base.
