The Delhi High Court has directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to file its response in a significant development related to the alleged IRCTC scam. The order came on a petition filed by Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav, who is challenging a trial court's decision to frame charges against him in the case.
Legal Challenge Against Charge Framing
Tejashwi Yadav, along with his father and former Union Railway Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, has approached the high court to contest the order passed by the trial court. They are assailing, or legally challenging, the lower court's order that paved the way for framing of formal charges in the corruption case. The case pertains to alleged irregularities during the tenure of Lalu Prasad as the railway minister.
The Delhi High Court issued notice to the CBI on January 6, 2026, seeking the agency's stand on the plea filed by the Yadavs. This procedural step means the investigation agency must now present its arguments and counter the points raised in the petition before the court can proceed further.
Background of the IRCTC Case
The IRCTC scam case, investigated by the CBI, revolves around allegations of corruption in the granting of operational contracts for hotels owned by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) during the period when Lalu Prasad Yadav held the railway portfolio. The prosecution alleges that certain contracts were awarded illegally, causing a loss to the exchequer.
Tejashwi Yadav, a key figure in Bihar politics and former Deputy Chief Minister, has been named as an accused in the case. The trial court's order, which the duo is now challenging in the high court, was a crucial step that moved the case from the investigation/pre-trial stage towards an actual trial.
Next Steps in the Judicial Process
With the high court's notice, the legal battle now enters a new phase. The CBI's reply will be crucial in determining whether the high court will intervene and set aside the trial court's order or allow the proceedings to continue. The court will examine the merits of the challenge after considering the CBI's response.
This development signifies an ongoing and intense legal tussle in one of the most watched corruption cases in recent years, involving prominent political figures. The outcome of this plea could significantly impact the trajectory of the trial. The case continues to draw national attention due to the stature of the individuals involved and the serious nature of the allegations.
