Former Bihar Chief Minister Rabri Devi appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday for questioning in a money laundering case related to the alleged land-for-jobs scam. The 68-year-old Devi, who is the wife of Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad, is being questioned under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
The ED had previously questioned Rabri Devi’s children, including Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav and Member of Parliament Misa Bharti, in connection with the same case. The money laundering investigation is based on a First Information Report (FIR) filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
The case revolves around allegations that during the period of 2004-2009, individuals were appointed to Group D positions within various zones of the Indian Railways. It is alleged that these appointments were made in exchange for the transfer of land to the family members of Lalu Prasad when he was the Railway Minister during the UPA-1 government.
Earlier, the ED had conducted searches in connection with the case and seized unaccounted cash amounting to Rs 1 crore. Additionally, proceeds of crime worth Rs 600 crore were detected. The authorities suspect that significant irregularities took place during the aforementioned period, leading to the accumulation of unexplained wealth.
Rabri Devi’s appearance before the ED is part of the ongoing investigation to uncover the truth behind these allegations. The ED will record her statement as part of the inquiry process. The agency aims to gather evidence and establish a money laundering trail, if any, linking the land-for-jobs scam and the illicit accumulation of assets.
The investigation has gained significant attention due to the involvement of high-profile politicians and the magnitude of the alleged scam. It is essential for the authorities to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation to ascertain the facts and hold accountable those involved in any wrongdoing.
As the case progresses, further actions may be taken based on the evidence and statements provided by Rabri Devi and others involved. The ED and other agencies will continue their efforts to unravel the complexities of the money laundering case and bring justice to any victims of corruption or illegal activities associated with the land-for-jobs scam.
