The Gauhati High Court on Friday (April 24) declined to grant anticipatory bail to Congress leader Pawan Khera in a case stemming from an FIR lodged by Riniki Bhuyan Sharma, the wife of Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The complaint relates to allegations concerning her possession of multiple passports.
Justice Parthivjyoti Saikia, who heard the matter, had reserved judgment after detailed arguments from both sides on April 21. The court’s full reasoning has yet to be released, reported Live Law.
Representing Khera, senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi argued that the circumstances surrounding the case pointed to political motivation, particularly with elections approaching. He referred to statements attributed to the Chief Minister and suggested they cast doubt on the fairness of the process.
“On what basis can the petitioner expect a fair treatment when the Chief Minister is breathing down his neck?” Singhvi had submitted, stressing that Khera isn’t a flight risk and that there is no need for his arrest.
(The story will be updated soon)
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