Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Apr 15: In a setback to Congress leader Pawan Khera, the Supreme Court of India on Wednesday stayed the one-week transit anticipatory bail granted to him by the Telangana High Court in a case registered by Assam Police.

The apex court’s order came after the Assam government challenged the interim relief, arguing that the Telangana High Court lacked jurisdiction in a matter where the alleged offence occurred in Assam.

While pausing the relief, the court clarified that Khera is free to seek anticipatory bail from a competent court in Assam, and its order would not affect such proceedings.

The case stems from a complaint filed by Riniki Bhuyan Sarma, wife of Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, over allegations made by Khera during a press conference on April 5.

Khera had alleged that Riniki Bhuyan Sarma held multiple passports and undisclosed foreign assets not mentioned in the Chief Minister’s election affidavit. Following the claims, an FIR was registered by the Guwahati Crime Branch under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including sections related to false statements and cheating.

Earlier, the Telangana High Court had granted Khera a week’s interim protection to allow him to approach the appropriate forum. However, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Assam government, contended before the Supreme Court that such relief could only be sought within the jurisdiction where the case was registered.

The state also raised concerns over documents submitted by Khera, alleging discrepancies in his Aadhaar details used to establish jurisdiction before the Telangana High Court.

Taking note of these submissions, the Supreme Court issued notice to Khera and said the matter required further examination.

With the interim protection now stayed, the focus shifts to whether Khera will approach a court in Assam for anticipatory bail as legal proceedings continue.