By Credent TV News Desk
Patna | July 9, 2025
In a major blow to RJD chief and former Bihar Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, the High Court has accepted the Central Bureau of Investigation’s (CBI) plea to enhance his sentence in the infamous fodder scam case. This ruling could extend Lalu’s prison term significantly.
What’s the case all about?
The fodder scam, which shook the country in the 1990s, involved large-scale embezzlement of government funds in the name of procuring fodder for livestock in Bihar. Crores of rupees were siphoned off using fake bills and fictitious expenses. Lalu Yadav has already been convicted in multiple related cases and has served time in jail. However, this latest development revolves around increasing the length of his sentence.
What did the CBI argue?
The CBI had approached the High Court stating that the lower court had awarded Lalu a lenient sentence considering the seriousness of the crime. According to the agency, a harsher punishment would be more appropriate given the scale of corruption and betrayal of public trust. Agreeing with this argument, the High Court has now permitted an increase in Lalu Yadav’s sentence.
How did Lalu Yadav and his party react?
The RJD camp has gone into damage control mode. Senior leaders have called this move a “political conspiracy” and declared their intent to challenge the verdict in the Supreme Court. While Lalu Yadav himself has not issued a public statement, sources close to him reveal that he is deeply disappointed and disturbed by the judgment.
What’s next?
This ruling could reshape the political landscape for RJD. The spotlight is now on Tejashwi Yadav—will he now fully take over the party’s reins? Meanwhile, rival parties like BJP and JD(U) have hailed the verdict as a strong stance against corruption and a win for accountability.
Expert Take:
The High Court’s decision is being seen as a symbolic moment in the fight against high-level corruption. For a veteran leader like Lalu Yadav to face an extended sentence sends a powerful message: no matter how old the case, justice does not forget.
