Rahul Gandhi Supports Pawan Khera Amid Legal Challenges from Assam Government
Congress Leader Stands Firm
A file image of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. (Photo:X)
New Delhi, Apr 13: On Monday, Rahul Gandhi, a prominent figure in the Congress party, expressed his unwavering support for Pawan Khera, asserting that they will not be cowed down by the Assam government's legal actions. This statement comes after the Assam administration appealed to the Supreme Court against the transit anticipatory bail granted to Khera, linked to his accusations against Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and his spouse.
In a social media update, Gandhi emphasized the necessity for transparency and accountability, stating, "The issues being raised warrant investigation. Our Constitutional values are grounded in the rule of law. The Congress Party stands firmly with Pawan Khera. We will not be intimidated."
He further accused the Assam Chief Minister of being the most corrupt leader in the nation, asserting that he will face legal consequences for his misuse of authority to target political adversaries and critics, which he claims violates the Constitution.
On April 10, the Telangana High Court granted Khera a one-week transit anticipatory bail after he sought protection following an incident where Assam police visited his residence in Delhi for questioning but were unable to locate him.
During a press conference on April 5, Khera alleged that Riniki Bhuyan Sarma, the Chief Minister's wife, possesses multiple passports and foreign assets that were not disclosed in Sarma's election affidavit for the recent Assembly elections. The Sarmas have dismissed these claims as unfounded and fabricated.
The complaint against Khera was lodged at the Guwahati Crime Branch Police Station based on Riniki Bhuyan Sarma's allegations, invoking several sections of the BNS, including 175 (false statements related to elections), 35 (right to private defense), and 318 (cheating).
The high court allowed Khera a week to submit an application to the relevant court and provided him with conditional relief.
In its ruling, the high court noted, "Without commenting on the case's merits, this court believes the petitioner has established a valid case for limited transit anticipatory bail, as his fear of arrest seems reasonable and is supported by evidence on record."
The conditions for Khera's bail include executing a personal bond of Rs 1 lakh with two sureties of the same amount, cooperating with the investigation, being available for questioning by the Investigating Officer, and not leaving the country without prior court approval.
Khera, who filed his plea on April 7, provided his Hyderabad address in the application.