Selective Corruption Crackdown or Timely Justice?
As Bihar gears up for its upcoming state legislative assembly elections, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has intensified its investigations, particularly targeting the family of Lalu Prasad Yadav in the ongoing Land for Jobs scam. The renewed scrutiny has raised concerns about whether corruption probes are being used selectively, just months before crucial elections.
Reviving Old Allegations: The Land for Jobs Scam
During his tenure as India’s Railway Minister (2004–2009), Lalu Prasad Yadav allegedly orchestrated a scheme where government jobs were awarded in exchange for land transfers to his family. Over time, the Yadav family reportedly accumulated a vast land bank, even initiating the construction of LaRa Mall in Patna—named after Lalu and his wife, Rabri Devi. Despite the Narendra Modi government being in power for 11 years, the ED’s recent renewed urgency in investigating these allegations has drawn skepticism.
Tejashwi Yadav in the Crosshairs
While the investigation extends to multiple members of the Yadav family, the prime focus is on Tejashwi Yadav, Lalu’s youngest son and a key political figure. Authorities have questioned him about the acquisition of an opulent property in New Delhi’s New Friends Colony, allegedly purchased at a fraction of its market value while Lalu was railway minister. With its estimated worth at ₹150 crore, the discrepancy in its purchase price of just ₹4 lakh has raised serious concerns.
A Political Playbook? The Kejriwal Parallel
Observers see a pattern in the crackdown on opposition leaders. A similar strategy was employed in Delhi, where Arvind Kejriwal faced legal troubles linked to the liquor policy scam, resulting in his political downfall. The ruling BJP successfully regained power in the capital, and now, a comparable scenario is unfolding in Bihar, where Tejashwi poses a significant challenge to the BJP’s ambition of securing its first chief minister in the state.
Bihar’s Power Struggle and the NDA’s Calculations
With Nitish Kumar’s declining popularity and health concerns, the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) sees an opportunity to consolidate power. Discrediting the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD)—particularly under Tejashwi Yadav’s leadership—could pave the way for a BJP-led government. The fear of Bihar returning to an era of lawlessness under RJD rule further strengthens this narrative.
Legal Scrutiny or Political Strategy?
Lalu Prasad Yadav’s history of corruption, particularly his conviction in the Fodder Scam, makes him a controversial figure. Yet, his release on bail since 2018 without further legal action adds weight to the argument that corruption cases are being revived selectively.
What Lies Ahead for Bihar?
With the possibility of Tejashwi Yadav’s arrest looming, opposition parties are closely monitoring developments. His financial dealings through shell companies provide grounds for legal action, raising concerns that other opposition-ruled states may face similar crackdowns. As Bihar inches toward elections, the ED’s moves will not only shape the state’s political future but also set a precedent for electoral battles across India.
Author: This news is edited by: Abhishek Verma, (Editor, CANON TIMES)
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