Legal – Gauhati High Court Denies Bail to Congress Leader Pawan Khera
Legal – The Gauhati High Court on Friday declined to grant anticipatory bail to Congress leader Pawan Khera in a case linked to allegations concerning multiple passports reportedly held by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sharma.
Court Rejects Pre-Arrest Bail Plea
The matter was heard by a single bench of Justice Parthiv Jyoti Saikia, who had reserved the order earlier this week after extensive arguments from both sides lasting over three hours. The court ultimately ruled against granting relief, effectively allowing the investigation to proceed without protective bail for Khera.
Defense Argues Political Motivation
Representing Khera through video conferencing, senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi argued that the case was politically motivated. He suggested that the timing of the legal action, particularly ahead of elections, pointed to an attempt to target the Congress leader. Singhvi also emphasized that Khera was not likely to evade authorities and maintained that custodial interrogation was unnecessary in this instance.
Prosecution Cites Serious Allegations
Opposing the bail request, Assam Advocate General Devajit Lon Saikia contended that the matter extended beyond defamation. He stated that the case involved serious accusations, including cheating and forgery. According to the prosecution, the allegations relate to the possible fabrication of documents and title deeds, making the investigation more complex and significant.
Background of Multi-Court Proceedings
The case has seen developments across several courts in recent weeks. On April 10, the Telangana High Court granted Khera a short-term transit anticipatory bail, allowing him time to approach a court with proper jurisdiction. However, this relief was short-lived, as the Supreme Court stayed the Telangana High Court’s order on April 15.
The apex court later clarified that its interim stay would not affect the merits of any anticipatory bail application filed in Assam. At the same time, it refused to lift the stay or extend the transit bail, leaving Khera to seek relief directly from the Gauhati High Court.
Police Action and Investigation
Amid the ongoing legal proceedings, Assam Police teams have taken steps to locate Khera. Officers visited Hyderabad, where he is believed to have a residence, and also conducted searches at his home in Delhi. These actions underline the seriousness with which authorities are treating the case.
Origin of the Allegations
The FIR stems from statements made by Khera during a press conference, where he alleged that Riniki Bhuyan Sharma possesses three passports. This claim became the basis for the complaint that led to the current legal proceedings.
Current Legal Position
With the Gauhati High Court rejecting the anticipatory bail plea, Khera now faces the possibility of arrest as the investigation continues. The case highlights the intersection of political discourse and legal scrutiny, particularly when allegations involve public figures and sensitive documentation issues.
The developments remain closely watched, as further legal steps may unfold depending on how both parties proceed in the coming days