Guwahati, 21 April (HS): The Gauhati High Court on Tuesday reserved its verdict on the anticipatory bail plea filed by Congress leader Pawan Khera in a case linked to alleged defamatory remarks against the wife of the Assam Chief Minister.

The matter came up before a single bench of Justice Parthiv Jyoti Saikia, who heard detailed submissions from both sides for more than three hours before keeping the order reserved.

Appearing for Khera through video conferencing, senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi maintained that his client posed no risk of absconding and did not require custodial interrogation. He further argued that the case was politically motivated, citing remarks made by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

Countering the submissions, Assam Advocate General Devojit Lon Saikia opposed the plea, asserting that the allegations extended beyond defamation and included serious charges such as cheating and forgery. He contended that granting interim protection would be inappropriate, describing Khera as a potential flight risk.

The case originates from a complaint lodged by Riniki Bhuyan Sharma, who accused Khera of making claims regarding her alleged possession of multiple passports and undisclosed foreign assets.

Khera approached the High Court seeking anticipatory bail after a case was registered under various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including sections related to cheating, forgery and defamation.

Earlier developments saw the Telangana High Court granting Khera a seven-day transit anticipatory bail, a relief that was later stayed by the Supreme Court of India.------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash