Former CM Rabri Devi Questioned by ED for Four Hours in Land-for-Jobs Scam

Patna : Former Chief Minister Rabri Devi was questioned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) for four hours on Tuesday in connection with the alleged land-for-jobs scam. Rabri Devi, the wife of Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) supremo Lalu Prasad, arrived at the ED office in Patna earlier in the day, where she was interrogated by officials. Her son, Tej Pratap Yadav, also appeared before the ED at around 12:15 pm and remains under questioning.

The investigation pertains to allegations that during Lalu Prasad Yadav’s tenure as Railway Minister from 2004 to 2009, jobs were allegedly given in exchange for land acquired at nominal rates in the names of family members and associates. While the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is probing the criminal aspect of the case, the ED is investigating the alleged money-laundering angle.

Separate Questioning of Rabri Devi and Tej Pratap Yadav

Sources indicate that Rabri Devi and Tej Pratap Yadav were questioned in separate rooms. Rabri Devi’s questioning ended after four hours, following which she left for her residence at 10 Circular Road, accompanied by her elder daughter, Misa Bharti. Tej Pratap Yadav questioning resumed after a lunch break and was still ongoing at the time of reporting.

During the interrogation, Rabri Devi was reportedly asked about how the land was acquired in her name and her connection to those from whom the land was obtained. She was also questioned about properties linked to her son, Tejashwi Yadav, including a bungalow in New Friends Colony, Delhi, and an apartment in Patna’s Saguna area.

Lunch Break and Security Measures

Rabri Devi and Tej Pratap Yadav were granted a lunch break during the questioning, during which Misa Bharti, who was present at the ED office, ensured that her mother and brother were provided with food. Rabri Devi was also given necessary medication before resuming her statement.

Security at the ED office was heightened in anticipation of the Yadav family’s appearance, with a large contingent of RJD supporters gathering outside the premises. Rabri Devi was escorted inside under tight security.

Political Reactions and Allegations of Misuse of Agencies

The questioning of the family has triggered political backlash in, with RJD leaders accusing the Narendra Modi-led central government of targeting opposition leaders through investigative agencies. RJD MLA Lalit Yadav and party leader Bhai Virendra criticised the ED’s actions, alleging that opposition leaders across the country were being harassed ahead of the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections, scheduled for October-November this year.

Lalu Prasad Summoned Next

The ED has also summoned Lalu Prasad for questioning, which is expected to take place on Wednesday. The former railway minister and other members of the Yadav family, including Tejashwi and Tej Pratap Yadav, are out on bail after being named in chargesheets filed by both the CBI and ED in the case.