IRCTC scam: Delhi court rejects Lalu Prasad, Rabri Devi plea against day-to-day trial

New Delhi: A Delhi court on Tuesday rejected a plea by former railway minister Lalu Prasad Yadav and his wife Rabri Devi seeking a pause in the day-to-day trial of the IRCTC scam case. The court maintained that it has the authority to schedule hearings as per trial requirements.

Earlier, Special Judge Vishal Gogne had framed charges against Lalu Prasad Yadav, Rabri Devi, and others under provisions of cheating, criminal conspiracy, and the Prevention of Corruption Act. The trial had moved to the stage of prosecution evidence, beginning with the examination of formal witnesses on a daily basis from October 27 to November 7.The cross-examination of witnesses was later deferred to November 17 following requests by some accused persons.

Lalu Prasad Yadav, Rabri Devi, and M/S Lara Project filed an application requesting that the case be listed not before a week after each hearing. Judge Gogne rejected the plea, stating that the court has the prerogative to list matters daily, in bulk dates, or in any other order based on the case's nature and gravity.

The judge referred to Supreme Court and Delhi High Court directions urging courts to expedite cases, avoid adjournments, and record evidence daily after the trial commences. He emphasised that while convenience of lawyers is considered, the trial court’s authority cannot be restricted by parties’ requests.

“The control over trial is as much a prerogative of the court as it is a dynamic process,” the judge said, adding that the listing of matters is part of essential court functions, considering the number of accused, witnesses, and seriousness of allegations. The trial will continue on a day-to-day basis, with witnesses’ evidence being recorded and cross-examinations resuming as scheduled.
(With PTI inputs)