Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The Supreme Court has reserved its verdict on Congress leader Pawan Khera’s anticipatory bail plea in a case related to alleged defamatory remarks against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sarma.
Arguments on Personal Liberty
Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for Khera, argued that his client is not a “hardened criminal” and stressed that personal liberty under Article 21 must be protected. He questioned the need for arrest, saying the charges primarily relate to defamation and do not require custodial interrogation.
State Seeks Custodial Interrogation
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Assam government, argued that custodial interrogation is necessary to determine the source of documents and images cited by Khera. He also raised concerns about possible foreign interference and claimed that Khera had been avoiding investigation.
High Court Earlier Denied Relief
The Gauhati High Court had earlier rejected Khera’s bail plea, citing him as a potential flight risk and noting the seriousness of the charges, including allegations of cheating and forgery. It also observed that the remarks were directed at a private individual, not political speech.
Background of the Case
The case stems from an April 4 press conference where Khera made allegations regarding Riniki Bhuyan Sarma’s citizenship, assets and business links. The Sarma family denied the claims, calling them fabricated and misleading, leading to a police complaint in Guwahati.
Previous Relief from Supreme Court
Earlier, the Supreme Court had granted Khera interim protection from arrest through transit bail, preventing immediate action by Assam Police while the matter is under consideration.
