Congress leader Pawan Khera, after securing anticipatory bail from a court in Assam, launched a scathing attack on Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, accusing him of using state machinery for intimidation. Khera, who was granted relief in connection with a case filed over his alleged remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, asserted that truth ultimately triumphs over such tactics.
Background of the Case
The case against Khera pertains to his comments made during a press conference in February 2023, where he allegedly made derogatory remarks about PM Modi. The Assam Police had registered a case against him following a complaint by a local BJP leader. Khera had approached the Gauhati High Court for anticipatory bail, which was granted on March 6, 2025, with certain conditions.
Khera's Reaction
Speaking to reporters after the court order, Khera said, "Truth always triumphs. The Chief Minister of Assam, instead of focusing on development, is busy intimidating opposition leaders. This is a clear misuse of power." He added that the legal battle was a test of democracy and that he had full faith in the judiciary.
Assam CM's Response
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, reacting to Khera's remarks, stated that the law is taking its course and that no one is above the law. "If someone makes inflammatory statements, they must face consequences. The court has granted bail, but the case will proceed," Sarma said in a press briefing.
Political Implications
The incident has sparked a fresh war of words between the Congress and the BJP in Assam. Congress leaders have rallied behind Khera, accusing the state government of targeting opposition voices. Meanwhile, BJP leaders have defended the action, stating that it was a legitimate legal process.
Khera's anticipatory bail comes amid a series of legal cases against opposition leaders in various states, raising concerns about the use of legal mechanisms to silence dissent. Political analysts believe that such cases could have implications for the upcoming assembly elections in Assam, scheduled for next year.
