In a major relief for Congress leader Pawan Khera, the Supreme Court has granted anticipatory (pre-arrest) bail in connection with a defamation and forgery case filed over his controversial remarks about Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sarma.
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The case stems from allegations made by Khera during a press conference, where he claimed that Sarma’s wife possessed multiple passports and had undisclosed foreign assets. These claims were strongly denied by the Sarma family, who termed them false and fabricated, leading to a formal complaint and FIR by Assam Police.
Pawan Khera moves SC against rejection of pre-arrest bail by Gauhati HC
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Khera had approached the Supreme Court after facing setbacks in lower courts, including the Gauhati High Court, which had earlier rejected his anticipatory bail plea. His legal team argued that the charges primarily relate to defamation and do not warrant arrest or custodial interrogation, emphasizing his right to personal liberty under Article 21 of the Constitution.
After hearing arguments from both sides, the apex court granted him protection from arrest, offering temporary relief while the legal proceedings continue. The court noted that individual liberty should not be curtailed unnecessarily, especially in cases where the allegations can be examined without arrest.
This high-profile legal battle has drawn political attention, as it involves a senior Congress leader and a sitting BJP Chief Minister. The case highlights the growing intersection of politics, public statements, and legal accountability in India