Setback to Grand Alliance as Jharkhand HC refuses bail to Lalu

Speed Post News Network

Patna : The Mahagathbandhan ( Grand Alliance) of opposition in Bihar suffered a major setback in its preparations including seat sharing among its constituents for the 2019 Lok Sabha as Jharkhand High Court on January 10, 2019, refused bail to RJD supremo and former CM Lalu Prasad in three fodder scam cases.

Lalu had moved the court for bail pleading his party required his presence for the preparation to the next Lok Sabha polls besides poor health condition. The RJD chief had pleaded that he was the only authorised person to select party candidates for LS polls and without his signature the Election Commission would not allot symbols to his nominees. But, the court did not find merit in his plea. Lalu is now likely to move the Supreme Court for bail.

Lalu’s absence in the run up to the LS polls may necessitate appointment of a new RJD president to facilitate allotment to party symbols to the party nominees. His absence is likely to affect Mahagathbandhan’s poll campaign as he remains its only mass leader in Bihar.

Lalu has been under judicial custody since December 23, 2017, after his conviction in three fodder scam cases. At present, Lalu is under treatment at Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Ranchi.