Assam Cabinet Minister Pijush Hazarika criticized the Indian National Congress, accusing them of trying to influence the 2026 Assam Assembly elections using fake documents in the “#KheraForgery” incident. Hazarika highlighted that the Congress allegedly resorted to similar tactics during the 2024 Lok Sabha polls by circulating manipulated videos. The Minister emphasized the need for legal action against any party resorting to deceptive practices in elections to maintain integrity.
Hazarika pointed out that the defense in the case involving Congress leader Pawan Khera did not focus on the authenticity of the disputed documents but instead tried to shift the narrative towards a political vendetta. He stressed the importance of holding all involved accountable to prevent any future attempts at election manipulation through deceitful means. The Supreme Court of India recently reserved its judgment on Khera’s plea for anticipatory bail in connection with a complaint filed by Riniki Bhuyan Sarma, the Chief Minister’s wife.
The complaint against Khera includes various charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, such as false statements related to elections, forgery, cheating, and defamation. Initially granted transit anticipatory bail by the Telangana High Court, Khera’s legal proceedings faced setbacks as the Supreme Court intervened, declining to extend interim protection. The Gauhati High Court also rejected Khera’s plea, emphasizing the need for further investigation into the origins of the disputed documents.
