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Assam Government Appeals Supreme Court Ruling on Pawan Khera's Bail

The Assam government has taken legal action by appealing to the Supreme Court against a recent ruling by the Telangana High Court that granted Congress leader Pawan Khera a one-week transit anticipatory bail. This case arises from allegations made by Khera against the wife of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The high court's decision allows Khera time to seek further legal relief while imposing conditions on his bail. The situation has garnered significant attention as it unfolds, particularly given the serious nature of the allegations involved.
 

Legal Action Against Congress Leader

A file image of Congress leader Pawan Khera in Guwahati. (Photo:PTI)


New Delhi, Apr 13: The Assam government has filed an appeal with the Supreme Court challenging the Telangana High Court's decision to grant a one-week transit anticipatory bail to Congress leader Pawan Khera. This legal action stems from allegations made by Khera against the wife of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.


The petition was submitted on Sunday by advocate Shuvodeep Roy and is expected to be heard this week.


On April 10, the high court had approved a one-week transit anticipatory bail for Khera, allowing him time to submit an application to the relevant court while imposing certain conditions.


The high court noted, "Without expressing any opinion on the merits of the case, this court believes that the petitioner has established a case for limited transit anticipatory bail, as his fear of arrest seems reasonable and is backed by evidence on record."


The imposed conditions include that Khera must be released on bail if arrested, provided he executes a personal bond of Rs 1 lakh along with two sureties of the same amount. He is also required to cooperate with the investigation and be available for questioning by the Investigating Officer, and he cannot leave the country without prior approval from the competent court.


Additionally, Khera must approach the appropriate jurisdictional court in Assam within the specified timeframe to seek further relief. As a public figure, he is also advised to refrain from making any public statements regarding the case that could compromise the investigation, as stated in the order.


On April 5, Khera accused Sarma’s wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sarma, of possessing multiple passports and foreign assets that were not disclosed in the Chief Minister's election affidavit for the April 9 Assembly elections.


The case against Khera was filed at the Guwahati Crime Branch Police Station under various sections of the BNS, including 175 (false statement in connection with an election), 35 (Right of private defence of the body and of property), and 318 (cheating).


Khera, who approached the high court on April 7, provided his residential address in Hyderabad and sought bail in case of his arrest.