Hyderabad: The Telangana High Court has granted one-week anticipatory bail to senior Congress leader Pawan Khera in connection with a case registered against him in Assam over allegations made against Himanta Biswa Sarma’s wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sarma.
The interim relief allows Khera time to approach the appropriate court for regular anticipatory bail.
Court allows limited time for legal recourse
A bench led by Justice K Sujana permitted Khera to seek relief from the competent court within one week. The court declined a request for additional time, noting that Khera had already moved swiftly in seeking legal protection and was “not an ordinary person”.
“The petitioner is granted time for one week to file an application before the concerned court,” the judge stated in the order.
Case stems from press conference remarks
The case originates from statements made by Khera during a press conference on April 5, where he alleged that Riniki Bhuyan Sarma possessed multiple passports and undisclosed foreign assets not mentioned in the Chief Minister’s election affidavit.
These allegations were strongly denied by the Sarma family, who described them as “false, fabricated and malicious”.
FIR registered under BNS provisions
Following a complaint by Riniki Bhuyan Sarma, Assam Police registered a case at the Guwahati Crime Branch under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The charges include offences related to false statements in connection with elections and cheating.
An Assam Police team had earlier visited Khera’s residence in Delhi for questioning but did not find him present. Officials stated that a search was conducted and certain materials were recovered.
Defence terms case as harassment
During the hearing, senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing Khera, argued that his client is a law-abiding citizen with no criminal antecedents. He described the case as politically motivated and an act of harassment.
Singhvi questioned the inclusion of multiple charges in the FIR, stating that the allegations stemmed from statements made at a press conference and did not warrant such extensive legal provisions.
Political reactions intensify
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma criticised Khera and the Congress party, accusing them of making unverified claims. He also asserted that the Assam Police would continue pursuing the case.
The development has added to the ongoing political tensions, with both sides trading sharp remarks over the issue.
Conclusion
The Telangana High Court’s interim relief provides temporary protection to Pawan Khera, allowing him time to seek further legal remedies. As the case progresses, it is expected to remain a focal point of both legal scrutiny and political debate.