The Supreme Court’s order in Pawan Khera v. State of Assam is not just another anticipatory bail order it is a quiet but firm reminder that the criminal process cannot be allowed to become a vehicle of political rivalry. The Chief Minister’s own words, the Court found, were a part of the record it could not ignore.
The Supreme Court granted anticipatory bail to Congress leader Pawan Khera in the Assam Police case, observing that the allegations and counter-allegations currently appear politically motivated and influenced by rivalry, with their veracity to be tested during trial.
Congress leader Pawan Khera has moved the Supreme Court challenging the Gauhati High Court’s refusal to grant him anticipatory bail in a criminal case filed by Assam Police. The case concerns his alleged remarks about Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s wife.
Gauhati High Court rejected Pawan Khera’s anticipatory bail, saying the case involves serious charges beyond defamation. The court also stressed the need for custodial interrogation to verify documents and uncover the full conspiracy.
A CJM court in Guwahati rejected Assam Police plea seeking arrest warrant against Pawan Khera in case linked to Himanta Biswa Sarma’s wife. Court order preceded Khera’s anticipatory bail move before Telangana High Court.
The Supreme Court denied extension of Pawan Khera’s transit bail and directed him to approach the Gauhati High Court. The Court stressed that his anticipatory bail plea must be decided independently on merits in Assam.
The Supreme Court will hear the Assam government’s plea against transit anticipatory bail granted to Pawan Khera on April 15. The case stems from allegations against Himanta Biswa Sarma’s wife, sparking a major legal and political battle.
Rahul Gandhi said Congress will implement Article 244A to ensure tribal self-governance in Assam and accused the BJP of weakening autonomous councils. He also warned that legal action will be taken against Himanta Biswa Sarma if Congress comes to power.
The Gauhati High Court designated a fast-track sessions court for daily hearings in the Zubeen Garg death case, with Judge Sharmila Bhuyan presiding, as Himanta Biswa Sarma called it a significant justice milestone.
The Gauhati High Court has issued notice to Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma over multiple petitions alleging repeated hate speeches against the Muslim community, with the Division Bench seeking responses from him, the Centre, and the Assam government.
