Delhi, 26 November (H.S.): Delhi's Rouse Avenue Court on Wednesday issued a notice to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) following a petition by former Bihar Chief Minister Rabri Devi. Devi has requested the transfer of ongoing cases, including the alleged Railway Tender and Land-for-Job scams, from the court of Special Judge Vishal Gogne, citing a reasonable apprehension of bias.

In her plea, Rabri Devi alleges that Judge Gogne is unduly inclined towards the prosecution and is conducting the trial with a premeditated mind. She has sought the transfer of four cases currently pending before him to another judge to ensure a fair trial.

The court has scheduled the next hearing on this matter for December 6.The move comes after Judge Gogne, on October 13, ordered the framing of charges against Rabri Devi, her husband and RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, and their son Tejashwi Yadav in the Railway Tender scam case.

The accused pleaded not guilty and opted to face trial. The charges were filed under sections of the Indian Penal Code for criminal conspiracy and cheating, alongside provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act.

The petition contends that the judge's conduct during proceedings has compromised the judicial neutrality required for a fair hearing. It is alleged that his approach appears to assist the prosecution, undermining the defendant's right to an impartial trial.

The cases in question stem from allegations related to Lalu Yadav's tenure as Union Railway Minister. The CBI alleges that contracts were awarded in exchange for land parcels transferred to his family or associates at discounted rates.

A charge sheet filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) named 16 entities and individuals as accused, including the Yadav family members, M/s Lara Project LLP, and M/s Sujata Hotel, among others.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar