GUWAHATI: The Gauhati High Court on Tuesday reserved its order on a plea for anticipatory bail filed by Congress leader Pawan Khera in connection with a case linked to allegations against the Assam CM’s family. Justice Parthivjyoti Saikia heard arguments from both sides before concluding the hearing and keeping the decision pending.
The case, registered by the Crime Branch of Assam Police in Guwahati, includes charges of defamation, forgery, and criminal conspiracy. It stems from statements made by Khera alleging that Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s wife, Riniki Bhuyan, possesses multiple foreign passports and undisclosed assets abroad.
Police had earlier visited Khera’s residence in Delhi on April 7, but he was not present at the time. He subsequently moved the Telangana High Court seeking transit anticipatory bail, which was granted for a limited period on April 10 to allow him to approach courts in Assam.
However, the Supreme Court of India later stayed that order on April 15 following an appeal by the Assam government. Khera challenged the stay, but the apex court declined to lift it or extend interim protection, directing him instead to seek relief from the Gauhati High Court.
Khera was represented by senior advocates Abhishek Manu Singhvi and Kamal Nayan Choudhury, along with a team of lawyers including Shariq Ahmed Abbasi, Aman Wadud and Aminur Rahman.
The High Court is expected to deliver its order in the coming days.
Agencies