Pawan Khera Gets Pre-Arrest Bail in Remarks Case Against Himanta Sarma’s Wife
The Supreme Court has granted anticipatory bail to Congress leader Pawan Khera in a case linked to alleged defamatory remarks against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sarma.
The court directed Khera to cooperate with the investigation, appear before authorities when summoned, and ensure he does not influence witnesses or tamper with evidence. He has also been restricted from leaving the country without prior permission of the court.
The decision came after the Gauhati High Court earlier rejected Khera’s bail plea, describing him as a “flight risk” and noting serious allegations including cheating and forgery.
During the hearing, senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing Khera, argued that custodial interrogation was unnecessary in a defamation-related matter and questioned the need for arrest. He also criticised the language used in the proceedings and termed the case unprecedented.
On the other side, the Solicitor General argued that custodial interrogation was necessary to verify the source of documents and allegations made by Khera, also raising concerns over alleged foreign interference and claims that he had been absconding.
The case originates from a press conference held on April 4, where Khera made allegations regarding the Assam Chief Minister’s wife, including claims about passports and overseas assets.
The Sarma family has denied all allegations, calling them baseless and stating that the documents were fabricated and circulated through foreign-linked social media accounts. A formal complaint was later filed with Guwahati Police.
