Guwahati, May 1: The Supreme Court on Friday granted anticipatory bail to Congress leader Pawan Khera in a case registered in Assam over alleged use of forged documents in a press conference.
Setting aside the Gauhati High Court’s order, the apex court said the case appeared to carry “political overtones” and stressed that custodial interrogation was not warranted at this stage.
Khera had been accused under multiple provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) after he displayed documents during a press briefing in April 2026, alleging undisclosed foreign assets and multiple passports linked to the wife of Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The complainant denied the claims, alleging the documents were forged.
The Supreme Court noted that while the allegations were serious, the case was largely based on documentary evidence already in possession of investigators. It observed that the criminal process should not be used in a manner that could “imperil personal liberty,” particularly when political rivalry appears to be a factor.
Importantly, the bench also took note of sharp public statements made by the Chief Minister during the episode, suggesting a climate of political confrontation. The court said such “allegations and counter-allegations” reinforced the need for caution in curtailing an individual’s liberty.
Allowing the appeal, the court directed that Khera be granted anticipatory bail in the event of arrest, subject to conditions including cooperation with the investigation, non-tampering of evidence, and restrictions on travel abroad.
At the same time, the court clarified that its observations were limited to the bail stage and would not influence the trial.
Also Read: Assam: Lakhimpur ZP CEO Monuranjan Payeng suspended over alleged VVT report manipulation
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