The Supreme Court on Friday delivered a setback to Congress leader Pawan Khera by staying the anticipatory bail granted by the Telangana High Court, which had protected him from arrest in a case registered in Assam.
The case has been filed following allegations linked to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and his wife Riniki Bhuyan Sarma.
What is the Case Against Pawan Khera?
The controversy stems from remarks made by Khera during a press conference on April 5, where he alleged that Riniki Bhuyan Sarma held multiple passports and undisclosed foreign assets. These claims were strongly denied by the Sarma family, who termed them false and fabricated.
Following the allegations, an FIR was registered at the Guwahati Crime Branch Police Station under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including charges related to false statements in an election context and alleged cheating.
Telangana High Court Relief Now on Hold
Earlier, on April 10, the Telangana High Court had granted Khera transit anticipatory bail for one week, allowing him time to approach the appropriate court for further legal remedy. Khera had moved the court on April 7, citing his Hyderabad residence and seeking protection from arrest.
However, with the Supreme Court’s latest order, that protection now stands suspended, escalating the legal pressure on the Congress leader.
Political Fallout Intensifies
The case has triggered a sharp political exchange between the ruling BJP and the Congress, especially as the allegations emerged during the sensitive election period in Assam.
While the Congress has maintained that Khera’s remarks were part of political criticism, the ruling establishment has accused him of making defamatory and election-related false claims.
Legal Proceedings Continue
With the Supreme Court intervention, the matter will now proceed through the legal system, and Khera may need to approach the appropriate court for further relief as the investigation continues.
Why is Pawan Khera in legal trouble?
He faces an FIR in Assam over allegations made against the Chief Minister’s wife regarding passports and assets.
What did the Supreme Court do?
It stayed the anticipatory bail granted by the Telangana High Court.
What did the Telangana High Court earlier decide?
It had granted him transit anticipatory bail for one week.
What are the charges in the FIR?
Charges include false statements in an election context and cheating under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita sections.
What triggered the case?
A press conference where Khera made allegations about Riniki Bhuyan Sarma.
