SC notices to Bihar Govt in disproportionate assets case

New Delhi, May 9 (UNI) The Supreme Court today issued notices to the state of Bihar on petitions filed by Railway Minister Lalu Prasad and his wife former Bihar Chief Minister Rabri Devi in the disproportionate assets case.

A bench headed by Chief Justice K G Balakrishnan issued notices after hearing the counsel for the petitioner, Harish Salve, who contended before the court that since the investigation in fodder scam case has been conducted by the CBI, the state of Bihar has no locus in the matter.

Both Mr Prasad and his wife were acquitted by Income Tax Tribunal and the CBI decided not to challenge the Tribunal's order. But the Nitish Kumar Government in the state decided to challenge the acquittal order in Patna High Court.

The two RJD leaders moved the High Court for being heard in the matter. The High Court, however, dismissed their applications.

Mr Lalu Prasad is facing allegations of acquiring assets of about Rs 40 lakh, beyond his known sources of income.

According to the Nitish Kumar Government, the CBI under the influence of Centre was trying to shield the culprits.

UNI SC RSA RAI1325