The Delhi High Court on Monday reserved its order on a petition filed by Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav, seeking quashing of the FIR registered by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the alleged “land-for-job” scam.

A bench led by Justice Ravindra Dudeja reserved its decision after hearing arguments from both sides.

Appearing for the CBI, Additional Solicitor General S.V. Raju argued that Yadav’s petition was filed after an inordinate delay and should be dismissed on that ground alone. He informed the court that the trial court had taken cognisance of the chargesheet on February 27, 2023, whereas the present petition was filed only on May 23, 2025—nearly two years later.

Raju also submitted that no prior sanction was required to investigate or prosecute Yadav, as the allegations pertain to acts involving misuse of public office and breach of official duty.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing Lalu Prasad Yadav, contended that the FIR itself was invalid as it was registered without mandatory prior sanction. He argued that the absence of such approval rendered the entire investigation illegal and procedurally flawed.

The “land-for-job” case relates to alleged irregularities during Yadav’s tenure as Union Railway Minister between 2004 and 2009. The CBI has alleged that candidates were appointed to Group-D posts in the Railways in exchange for transfers of land to Yadav’s family members or associates.

So far, the CBI has filed three chargesheets in the case, naming a total of 78 accused, including 38 individuals who allegedly secured railway jobs through the scheme.

Earlier, in June 2025, the Supreme Court had refused to stay the proceedings before the trial court. With the Delhi High Court now reserving its order, a final decision on the plea is expected soon.