Congress Urges Assam CM to Reconsider Stand After Supreme Court Relief to Pawan Khera

Senior Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi has appealed to Himanta Biswa Sarma to reconsider his position following relief granted by the Supreme Court of India to party spokesperson Pawan Khera in a high-profile legal case.

The apex court recently granted anticipatory bail to Khera in connection with allegations of defamation and forgery related to remarks he made about Sarma’s wife. While allowing the investigation to continue, the court underlined that arrest should not be routine and must only be used as a last resort. It also indicated that the case appeared to have elements of political overtones, stressing the importance of safeguarding personal liberty.

Reacting to the development, Singhvi made a public appeal to the Assam Chief Minister, urging him—“with folded hands”—to rethink his stance in light of the court’s observations. He emphasized that the ruling reinforced constitutional protections and highlighted the need for restraint in the use of state power. Singhvi further remarked that public discourse should maintain a certain dignity, particularly when sensitive personal matters are involved.

The Congress leader also suggested that a conciliatory gesture, even short of a formal apology, could help improve the tone of political engagement and demonstrate maturity in leadership. His comments come amid escalating tensions between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Assam and the opposition Congress.

However, Sarma responded strongly to Singhvi’s remarks, dismissing the appeal and asserting that he does not require lessons on democratic values or civility. The Chief Minister maintained that the case involves serious allegations concerning a private individual and should not be trivialized as mere political rhetoric. He reiterated that the legal process would proceed independently and warned that the matter was far from over.

The controversy originates from statements made by Khera regarding alleged foreign citizenship and financial links associated with Sarma’s wife—claims that were firmly denied and subsequently led to legal proceedings. The case has since evolved into a broader political flashpoint, drawing sharp reactions from both sides.

Meanwhile, Congress leaders, including Jairam Ramesh, have welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision, describing it as a victory for constitutional values and a reminder of the judiciary’s role in protecting individual rights. As the investigation continues under judicial oversight, the episode underscores the growing friction between political rivals and raises larger questions about the balance between free speech, personal reputation, and the use of legal mechanisms in political battles.