In a significant legal turn for Pawan Khera, the Supreme Court on Friday declined to extend the Congress leader’s transit bail. The bench, comprising Justices J.K. Maheshwari and Atul S. Chandurkar, directed Khera to approach the competent courts in Assam to seek further legal relief.
The case originates from a complaint filed by Riniki Bhuyan Sarma, the wife of Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
While the decision might seem like a setback, the apex court clarified that Khera is still fully at liberty to move an appropriate court for anticipatory bail. The bench emphasized that the local jurisdictional court should decide the matter based strictly on its own merits.
To ensure a fair hearing, the Supreme Court made it clear that its previous observations should not weigh on the lower court’s decision:
“The court deciding the application shall not be adversely influenced by any order granting transit bail or otherwise.”
The Legal Timeline
The ruling follows a busy week of legal back-and-forth for the Congress leader:
- Earlier this week: The Supreme Court stayed the anticipatory bail previously granted to Khera by the Telangana High Court.
- April 15: A prior order was issued, which the bench now clarifies should not impact future proceedings.
- Today: The plea was officially disposed of, with the court noting that if local courts are not currently functioning, Khera’s legal team may approach the registry in accordance with the law.
What Happens Next?
With the Supreme Court stepping back from the matter, the ball is now in the court of the Assam judiciary. Khera’s legal team is expected to move quickly to secure protection from arrest in the state where the complaint was originally filed.
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