Supreme Court Halts Relief To Congress Leader Pawan Khera, Stays HC Order On Anticipatory Bail

New Delhi: The Supreme Court has dealt a significant blow to Congress leader Pawan Khera. The apex court has stayed the order of Telangana High Court in which he was granted one week's transit anticipatory bail. Khera has not received immediate relief due to the Assam government's petition.

Where did the matter begin?

FIR registered against Pawan Khera in Assam. The allegation is that he made serious allegations about the wife of Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma like having three passports, due to which he came into controversy. Fearing arrest, Khera sought transit anticipatory bail in the Telangana High Court.

What relief did the High Court give?

The Telangana High Court had granted him one week's transit anticipatory bail on April 10. The court had also said that during this period, Khera can go to the concerned court of Assam and apply for regular bail.

Why did the Supreme Court have to come?

The verdict was not acceptable to the Assam government. He challenged the High Court's decision in the Supreme Court. It was argued that Khera deliberately chose Telangana High Court, whereas the matter pertains to Assam. This is called “forum shopping” in legal language, that is, finding a court of your choice. The Supreme Court heard the case and stayed the High Court order for the time being.

Now what will be the impact on Khera?

The Supreme Court has sent him a notice, he will have to reply within three weeks. But one relief is that if he directly asks for anticipatory bail in the Assam court, then this order of the Supreme Court will not come in the way. This implies that the path remains open.

What is the political significance of this decision?

This matter has already taken political form. On one hand, Congress is calling it political harassment, while on the other hand, Assam government is calling it a matter related to serious allegations. This step of the Supreme Court can make this dispute more sensitive.

Now it remains to be seen whether Khera chooses the path of Assam court or fights in the Supreme Court, this picture will be clear in three weeks.