Lalu Prasad Yadav Accused of Exploiting Poor Job Seekers in Land-for-Jobs Scam
CBI Alleges Exploitation of Job Aspirants by Lalu Prasad Yadav
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has alleged that Lalu Prasad Yadav, the chief of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), exploited job seekers from underprivileged backgrounds by offering them railway posts in exchange for land parcels in Bihar. According to the CBI, the alleged irregularities took place between 2004 and 2009, when Yadav served as the Union Minister for Railways.
Land-for-Jobs Scam: How it Allegedly Worked
The CBI claims that jobs in the Railways were offered in return for land gifts or sales at nominal prices by candidates or their relatives. The agency registered a case on May 18, 2022, naming Yadav, his family members, and over 80 individuals, including public servants and private persons associated with the Ministry of Railways, for allegedly facilitating illegal appointments across various railway zones.
Evidence and Investigation
The CBI has presented evidence of a clear cash trail and confirmed that several approvers stated there was “enormous pressure from the top” of the Railway Ministry to approve these appointments. Many of the submitted documents were allegedly forged or unverified. The CBI’s special public prosecutor, DP Singh, questioned how multiple candidates from a single state could be selected for Group D jobs on the same day, highlighting the irregularities in the recruitment process.
Charges and Next Steps
- The CBI has filed three charge sheets in the case, with the latest being submitted on June 7, 2024.
- The court has summoned Yadav, his family members, and 78 other accused, including 30 government officials.
- All accused were granted bail on a bond of ₹50,000.
Implications and Future Developments
The case has significant implications for Yadav and his family members, as well as for the Railway Ministry and its recruitment processes. The trial is ongoing, and the CBI is scheduled to continue its arguments. The court’s observations suggest that there is strong prima facie evidence indicating that railway officials violated recruitment rules and guidelines to accommodate these candidates.
The case highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in government recruitment processes, particularly in cases where vulnerable populations are involved. As the trial progresses, it will be crucial to monitor developments and assess the impact on those involved.
