Gauhati High Court Reserves Order On Bail Plea Of Pawan Khera

On Tuesday, the Gauhati High Court reserved its decision on the bail application of Congress leader Pawan Khera, following detailed arguments from both the defence and the state.

Appearing for Khera, senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi argued that political motives drive the case and that it lacks substantive grounds.

Representing the defence alongside advocate Kamal Narayan Choudhury, he maintained that the charges aim to target a political opponent rather than address any genuine wrongdoing.

The prosecution, led by Assam Advocate General Devajit Lon Saikia on behalf of the Assam Police, opposed the plea, asserting that the case involves serious allegations such as forgery and cheating. He told the court that preliminary findings suggest deliberate misconduct, making custodial interrogation necessary and bail inappropriate at this stage.

The case stems from remarks made by Khera concerning Himanta Biswa Sarma and his wife Riniki Bhuyan Sarma.

Khera alleged links to a US-based firm and raised questions over financial dealings. The Chief Minister firmly rejected those claims.

Earlier, the Telangana High Court had granted Khera transit anticipatory bail on 10 April, noting that his concerns over arrest were not unfounded. The relief came with conditions, including cooperation with investigators and restrictions on travel and public statements related to the case.

Subsequently, the Assam government approached the Supreme Court of India seeking to set aside that protection.

The apex court declined to extend further relief and advised Khera to pursue his bail plea before the Gauhati High Court.

The matter will resume once the High Court delivers its order.

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