CBI set to conclude arguments against Lalu, family, others
Central Bureau of Investigation is likely to soon conclude its arguments in a special court over framing of charges against former railways minister Lalu Prasad, his wife and former Bihar CM Rabri Devi and son and current deputy CM Tejashwi Yadav among others in the IRCTC case, said people in the know.
The federal agency has commenced its arguments almost seven years after it booked Lalu Prasad and others on corruption charges. «The endeavour is to conclude the arguments this month so that the trial can be kick-started at the earliest,» said a senior official.
The special CBI court has said that the hearing needed to be «expedited» and «adjournments are to be avoided».
After the CBI presents its case, the defence will present its counter arguments, following which the court will pronounce its verdict on whether or not to frame charges against the accused. If the court decides to frame charges, it will mean commencement of trial in the high-profile case.
Last year, the CBI and the defence had argued at length on the question of framing of charges but owing to the transfer of the CBI judge who was hearing the matter, both parties had to re-argue their case before a new judge.
A co-accused in the case, former government official Vinod Kumar Asthana, recently obtained a stay from the Supreme Court over framing of charges against him.
