The Telangana High Court has granted interim relief to senior Congress leader Pawan Khera by allowing him one week of anticipatory bail in connection with a case filed in Assam over his allegations against Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sarma.
The order was passed by Justice K Sujana, who permitted Khera to approach the appropriate court for regular anticipatory bail within a week. The court declined a request for additional time, observing that Khera had already moved swiftly in seeking legal protection and was capable of pursuing further remedies without delay.
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 owned foreign assets that were not disclosed in the Chief Minister’s election affidavit. These claims were strongly rejected by the Sarma family, who described them as false and malicious.
Following a complaint filed by the Chief Minister’s wife, Assam Police registered a case at the Guwahati Crime Branch under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including sections related to false statements in connection with elections and cheating. The matter quickly escalated, with police initiating steps to question Khera.
During the court proceedings, Khera’s counsel argued that the case was politically motivated and intended to harass him. It was submitted that he is a law-abiding citizen with no criminal record and would cooperate fully with the investigation. The defence also questioned the severity of charges invoked over remarks made in a press conference.
The hearing followed a contentious exchange of arguments, touching upon issues of jurisdiction, alleged misuse of legal provisions, and claims of political vendetta. Khera had approached the Telangana High Court, citing his residence in Hyderabad while seeking transit anticipatory bail.
Meanwhile, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma criticised Khera and the Congress, accusing them of making unverified allegations and evading the investigation. Police teams had earlier visited Khera’s residence in Delhi, but did not find him there.
With the High Court’s order, Khera has temporary protection from arrest, but the legal proceedings will now continue as he moves to the appropriate forum for further relief.
