Following is the chronology of events leading to Railway Minister Lalu Prasad's acquittal:

1. March 11, 1996: Patna High Court directs CBI to probe fodder scam cases.

2. March 19, 1996: Supreme Court affirms PHC order, asks 2-member bench to monitor progress of investigation.

3. August 19, 1998: Disproportionate Assets case registered against Lalu.

4. April 4, 2000: Lalu chargesheeted. Rabri devi's name included as co-accused for abetment of the offence.

5. April 5, 2000: Lalu/Rabri surrender to CBI court. Rabri gets bail, and Lalu sent to jail after judge rejects his bail prayer.

6. May 10, 2000: Patna High Court grants provisional bail to Lalu which is extended on 25 occasions.

7. June 9, 2000: Charges framed against Lalu/Rabri

8. November 23, 2006: Arguments conclude in the case.

9. December 4, 2006: Judge fixes December 18 for delivering verdict.

10. December 18, 2006: Lalu, Rabri acquitted.