Guwahati, May 2: Congress leader Pawan Khera on May 2 described the Supreme Court’s decision to grant him anticipatory bail in an Assam case as a reaffirmation of “personal liberty” and constitutional democracy, while accusing Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma of misusing state machinery for political purposes.
In a post on X following the relief granted by the Supreme Court of India, Khera expressed gratitude to senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi and his legal team. He also acknowledged the support of senior Congress figures, including Sonia Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, K. C. Venugopal and Jairam Ramesh.
The case originates from allegations made by Khera regarding multiple passports purportedly held by Riniki Bhuyan Sarma, the wife of the Assam Chief Minister, following which Assam Police registered an FIR invoking charges related to forgery and defamation.
While granting anticipatory bail, the apex court observed that the allegations and counter-allegations appeared “prima facie politically motivated” and influenced by political rivalry. It also criticised certain findings of the Gauhati High Court, terming them “erroneous” and not based on a proper assessment of the material on record.
The court directed Khera to cooperate fully with the investigation, refrain from influencing witnesses or tampering with evidence, and not leave the country without prior permission from the competent authority.
Responding to the order, Khera said it was “not only a personal victory and a source of relief,” but also a reminder that in a constitutional democracy, individual liberty cannot be undermined for political ends. He concluded his statement with the phrase, “Satyameva Jayate.”
