The Supreme Court on Wednesday granted anticipatory bail to Congress leader Pawan Khera in a case filed by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sarma. The case pertains to alleged defamatory remarks made by Khera against the Chief Minister's family.
Details of the Case
Riniki Bhuyan Sarma had filed a complaint against Pawan Khera for allegedly making derogatory statements about her husband and family during a political rally. The complaint was lodged under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including defamation.
Khera had approached the Supreme Court after the Gauhati High Court refused to grant him anticipatory bail. The Supreme Court bench, comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Prashant Kumar Mishra, considered the matter and granted relief to the Congress leader.
Court's Observations
During the hearing, the Supreme Court observed that the allegations against Khera were not serious enough to warrant custodial interrogation. The court noted that the remarks were made in the context of political criticism and did not constitute a grave offense.
The bench directed Khera to cooperate with the investigation and appear before the investigating officer as and when required. It also imposed certain conditions, including that he shall not tamper with evidence or influence witnesses.
Political Reactions
The Congress party welcomed the Supreme Court's decision, calling it a victory for democratic rights. Party spokesperson said that the case was a misuse of legal machinery to silence political opponents.
On the other hand, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) criticized the court's order, stating that it sets a wrong precedent. Assam BJP leaders argued that making defamatory remarks against a Chief Minister's family should not be taken lightly.
This is the latest in a series of legal battles involving Pawan Khera, who has been facing multiple cases for his statements against the ruling party. The Supreme Court's decision is expected to provide him temporary relief from arrest.
