The Gauhati High Court has deferred its decision on the bail application of Congress leader Pawan Khera, following arguments from both sides in a case brought by the Assam Police. Pawan Khera’s legal team, led by senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, contended that the case was politically motivated and amounted to vendetta. They argued that the accusations lacked substantial evidence and were an attempt to silence a political adversary.
On the other hand, Assam Advocate General Devajit Lon Saikia, representing the Assam Police, opposed the bail plea, alleging that Khera was implicated in serious crimes such as forgery and cheating. Saikia asserted that the investigation had unearthed prima facie evidence of deliberate misconduct, justifying custodial interrogation and the denial of bail.
The case stems from allegations made by Pawan Khera against Chief Minister Himanta Sarma’s wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sarma, linking her to a US-based firm in Wyoming and alleging financial irregularities involving the Chief Minister and his family. Despite Khera’s claims of substantial funds and multiple passports, which were vehemently refuted by the Assam Chief Minister, the Telangana High Court granted Khera transit anticipatory bail on April 10. However, the court imposed conditions, including cooperation with the investigation, travel restrictions without permission, and refraining from making statements that could bias the probe.
The Assam government subsequently appealed to the Supreme Court to revoke the relief granted to Khera, with the matter expected to be heard later this week. The Supreme Court, declining any relief to Khera, advised him to file his bail plea with the Gauhati High Court.
