Telangana High Court Reserves Order on Pawan Khera's Anticipatory Bail Petition
The Telangana High Court has reserved its orders on the maintainability of an anticipatory bail petition filed by Congress leader Pawan Khera. The case involves alleged defamatory remarks made by Khera against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sharma. The court will announce its decision on Friday after considering submissions from both parties.
Court Proceedings and Legal Arguments
The matter was heard by Justice K Sujana, who posted it for orders on Friday after recording detailed arguments. During the hearing, senior counsel Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing virtually for Khera's counsel Ponnam Ashok Goud, argued that the case was politically motivated, vindictive, and malafide. Singhvi claimed it was designed solely to harass the petitioner.
Singhvi highlighted several key points:
- The case is politically driven and intended to target Khera unfairly.
- Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma used abusive language against Khera, indicating ulterior motives.
- Over 100 policemen from Assam were sent to Khera's Delhi residence, showcasing excessive force.
- The Assam police sought a non-bailable warrant against Khera, which was not granted by the magistrate.
Khera, in a recent press conference in Delhi, reportedly alleged that Riniki Bhuyan Sharma holds multiple passports and has assets in foreign countries, which forms the basis of the defamation case.
Counterarguments from Assam Counsel
Meanwhile, counsel for Assam countered these claims, arguing that the case extends beyond mere defamation. They asserted it involves a larger conspiracy that requires a thorough investigation. The counsel emphasized that the bail petition is not maintainable due to jurisdictional issues.
The key arguments from Assam's side include:
- The case is not limited to defamation but points to a broader conspiracy needing detailed probe.
- Jurisdictional concerns: the case is registered in Assam, while Khera is a permanent resident of Delhi, complicating the bail petition's validity.
The Telangana High Court's upcoming order will determine whether Khera's anticipatory bail petition can proceed, setting a precedent for similar high-profile legal battles. The decision is eagerly awaited by political and legal observers across the country.
