The Delhi High Court has directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to file its response to a petition filed by former Railway Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav. The plea challenges a trial court order that framed charges against him in the alleged IRCTC scam case.
Court Proceedings and Key Observations
Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma presided over the hearing on Monday, January 5, 2026. While issuing notice to the probe agency, the judge explicitly refused to grant a stay on the ongoing trial proceedings at this juncture. The court clarified that it could not consider halting the trial without first examining the CBI's stand on the matter.
"The court cannot do so without going through the probe agency's reply," Justice Sharma observed, underscoring the procedural necessity. The order signifies that the legal process will continue its course while the High Court examines the legality of the charge framing order.
Background of the IRCTC Case
The case, which has been a significant point of political and legal attention, revolves around allegations of irregularities during Lalu Prasad Yadav's tenure as the Railway Minister. The CBI has accused him and others of misconduct in the functioning of the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC).
The trial court had earlier taken cognizance of the chargesheet and proceeded to frame charges, a critical stage that formally initiates the trial against the accused. Yadav's legal team has now approached the High Court, contesting this order and seeking its quashing.
What Happens Next?
The immediate next step is the filing of the CBI's reply to the High Court. The agency's response will be crucial in determining the future course of the petition. Legal experts suggest that the High Court's decision to seek a reply indicates it is giving a patient hearing to the arguments against the charge framing.
However, the refusal to stay the trial simultaneously means the lower court proceedings are not interrupted. This ensures that the case does not face inordinate delays while the higher court examines the specific legal challenge raised by the accused.
The development marks another chapter in the long-running legal battle, keeping the IRCTC case firmly in the public eye. The next hearing date will be set after the CBI submits its affidavit to the Delhi High Court.
