The agency detailed how multiple properties were allegedly acquired by Prasad and his family during his tenure as the Railway Minister, with job aspirants being compelled to part with their land in exchange for jobs. The investigation alleges that these lands were often transferred at prices far below market value or without any proper financial transaction at all, under the guise of legal purchases. The ED’s findings have led to charges of money laundering, with further investigations ongoing to track other assets linked to the family.
This case is part of a broader investigation launched by the ED under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The central focus of the probe is on properties reportedly transferred to the Yadav family between 2004 and 2009 when Lalu Prasad Yadav held the portfolio of Railways in the Union Cabinet. Investigators allege that the job-for-land racket was orchestrated during this period, with beneficiaries being placed in railway positions after transferring their land to Prasad’s family members or associates.
Several properties, including plots of land located in Patna and other parts of Bihar, are under scrutiny as part of the probe. According to the ED, these properties were allegedly transferred in the names of shell companies controlled by the family. The beneficiaries of railway jobs reportedly had no choice but to give up their land under pressure, enabling the Prasad family to amass significant real estate holdings.
The investigation, which has been ongoing for several years, came to a head when the ED submitted its findings to a special court in New Delhi, presenting documentary evidence to support the claims of illegal transactions. Investigators highlighted that many of the properties were registered at prices significantly lower than their actual market value, raising suspicions about the nature of the deals. Furthermore, officials claim that no legitimate financial transactions took place in many cases, making it clear that the lands were obtained as a form of bribe.
The ED's court filing goes on to explain that these transactions were conducted in a manner designed to obscure the true nature of the exchange. Shell companies, proxies, and relatives were reportedly used to disguise the ownership of the land, creating a convoluted trail of assets that took years for authorities to untangle. According to the agency, this network of companies was created with the sole purpose of acquiring land in exchange for jobs in the railways.
ED officials also highlighted that the investigation uncovered a pattern of similar land transfers across several regions, including other northern states. These properties, often undervalued, were either kept by the Yadav family or sold off at a later stage for significant profit. The agency has now sought the court’s permission to confiscate a number of these assets, arguing that they were obtained illegally and should be recovered by the state.
Lalu Prasad Yadav, a veteran political figure and a central figure in Bihar's politics, has faced numerous legal challenges over the years, but this case marks one of the most significant accusations against him. His tenure as Railway Minister had been hailed for various reforms and financial gains for the sector, but this scandal has cast a long shadow over that legacy. His family, including his wife Rabri Devi and their children, who have all held prominent political positions in Bihar, are now embroiled in the controversy.
The family's legal team has strongly denied the allegations, calling them politically motivated. They have accused the central investigative agencies of targeting Yadav for his role in opposition politics, particularly his criticisms of the current government. However, investigators have maintained that the evidence against the family is substantial, and further arrests or charges may be forthcoming as the case progresses.
The ED's findings have also spurred a broader conversation about corruption in public office and the misuse of power by political families in India. Political analysts suggest that the job-for-land case could have significant ramifications, both legally and politically, particularly in Bihar, where Yadav’s party, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), still commands a significant voter base. Some observers believe that this case could influence future electoral outcomes, especially if further legal proceedings result in convictions or property seizures.
For now, the investigation continues, with the ED focusing on identifying all the beneficiaries of the railway jobs handed out during Yadav’s tenure. Officials are also probing whether similar schemes were employed in other ministries or sectors where the family held influence. If additional evidence is found, it could widen the scope of the investigation, potentially implicating more individuals.