The Supreme Court of India on Friday granted anticipatory bail to Congress leader Pawan Khera in connection with an FIR registered by the Assam Police. The complaint was filed by Riniki Bhuyan Sarma, alleging that Khera made false claims about her holding multiple foreign passports.A bench of Justices J.K. Maheshwari and A.S. Chandurkar set aside the earlier order of the Gauhati High Court, which had denied anticipatory bail. The apex court observed that the High Court’s findings were based on an incorrect appreciation of material evidence and had wrongly shifted the burden onto the accused.The court noted that the allegations and counter-allegations appeared “politically motivated” and did not justify custodial interrogation at this stage. Emphasising the importance of personal liberty under Article 21 of the Constitution, the bench said such rights cannot be curtailed without strong justification.Granting relief, the court directed that Khera be released on bail in the event of arrest, subject to conditions. He must cooperate with the investigation, appear before authorities when required, and not leave India without prior court permission.The FIR includes charges under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including cheating, forgery, and defamation. The court said a balance must be maintained between fair investigation and individual liberty.
